About the Guest(s):

This episode features three powerhouse coaches from North Crowley High School: Coach Shead, Head Coach — a seasoned leader whose passion for excellence and high standards has reshaped North Crowley’s basketball program.

Coach Tory Branch, Associate Head Coach — known for her defensive focus and powerful voice, she brings discipline and intensity to the program.

Coach Jamal Branch, Assistant Coach — a former state champion who leads with competitive fire and specializes in offense and player development.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the It's Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with the coaching staff of North Crowley Girls Basketball to explore what makes their program one of the most respected in Texas.

From their unique “Alamo” mantra to fostering next-level discipline, the staff opens up about their coaching chemistry, high academic standards, and the mental toughness required to compete at the top.

They also dive into how the game is evolving — especially in the girls’ space — and why training with intention (not just cones) is shaping more adaptable, elite athletes. Throughout the conversation, you’ll hear what truly sets North Crowley apart, from family dynamics on staff to how they’re preparing young women to succeed beyond the court.

Key Takeaways:

- Girls' skill development is catching up fast, thanks to access to high-level trainers and intentional reps.

- The “Alamo” mindset instills discipline, accountability, and collective effort — no excuses, just execution.Strong coaching chemistry is built on trust, allowing each coach to lead in their lane with confidence.

- Visibility matters: North Crowley isn’t seeking credit, but they’re ready for recognition.

- Coaching as family comes with challenges, but the unity drives program success.

About the Guest(s):Ashley Roberts is the host of the “It’s Just Different” Podcast and a former junior college basketball player who began her collegiate journey at South Plains Junior College before transferring to the University of Texas.

Now a basketball consultant, speaker, and founder of the Different Community, Ashley uses her platform to educate and empower parents navigating their athlete’s basketball journey — especially those overlooked or misunderstood paths like JUCO.Episode Summary:In this episode, Ashley Roberts sets the record straight about JUCO — and why parents need to stop looking at it as a backup or “less than” option. Sharing her own experience as a JUCO athlete turned D1 graduate, Ashley explains why junior college can be the perfect fit for athletes who need development, more playing time, or a reset.

She breaks down how JUCO events like the Jamboree draw D1 coaches, the difference between going JUCO vs D2, and how ego and misinformation keep parents from seeing JUCO for what it really is — an opportunity.This episode is for any parent who’s wondering if JUCO is “worth it,” any athlete considering their options, and any coach helping a player make the right decision.Key Takeaways:- Junior college provides real opportunities for development, playing time, and visibility- JUCO events like Jamborees are packed with D1 coaches looking for talent- Choosing JUCO doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it can be the smartest move- Many parents reject JUCO out of ego or misinformation- Honest conversations with coaches are essential when mapping out your athlete’s pathJoin the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠

About the Guest(s):

Ashley Roberts is the founder of the It’s Just Different Podcast and a former University of Texas basketball player. She began coaching varsity basketball at 23, created a successful AAU program, and now leads an empowering movement for parents of girl basketball players.

Through her podcast and community, she guides families through college recruiting, branding, and building opportunities on and off the court.

David Shands is known as the Podcast King and host of the Social Proof Podcast. As a mentor to countless podcasters, including Ashley, he’s helped transform their platforms into impactful media brands.

His insight into entrepreneurship and media makes him one of the most influential voices in the podcasting space.

Episode Summary:

In this special 2-year anniversary episode, the host becomes the guest as David Shands interviews Ashley Roberts about her evolution from D1 athlete to AAU coach to community leader and podcast entrepreneur.

They break down what it really takes to build something from nothing, especially as a Black woman in youth sports and media.Ashley shares how she turned a passion for helping parents and athletes into a full ecosystem — podcast, community, merch, showcases, and live events.

The episode dives deep into the reality of youth sports politics, recruiting red flags, branding for athletes, the role of transfer portals, and what parents need to know today.It’s a transparent, inspiring, and actionable conversation about building legacy, mentorship, and ownership in sports — and how Ashley’s platform is changing the game for girl basketball players and their families.

Key Takeaways:

- You don’t need a huge platform to start — just a clear purpose and consistent value.

- Parents must understand what’s really happening behind the scenes in AAU and college recruiting.

- Social media branding matters more than ever for athletes — visibility creates opportunities.

- Building relationships with the right people can take you further than talent alone.

- Entrepreneurship is possible in youth sports — from running leagues to creating community-driven products.

Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% off

https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠