Episode 96: Johnny Kinziger Joins Bird Fans 4 Ever

This week on Bird Fans 4 Ever, we welcome one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Illinois State baseball history, Johnny Kinziger. From his standout career with the Redbirds to the memories, lessons, and relationships that helped shape his journey, Johnny reflects on his time wearing the Redbird uniform and what made his experience in Normal so special.

We discuss his development as a player, the impact of his coaches and teammates, some unforgettable moments on the diamond, and what the future holds for him as he continues pursuing his baseball dreams. Johnny also shares insights into the work ethic, leadership, and mindset that helped him become one of the Missouri Valley Conference’s premier players.

Redbird fans won’t want to miss this conversation with one of the program’s recent standouts as we celebrate his accomplishments and hear the stories behind his remarkable career.

🎙️ Bird Fans 4 Ever Episode 96 featuring Johnny Kinziger is available now on all major podcast platforms. Go Birds! 🔴⚪🐦

🏀 BIRD FANS 4 EVER — EPISODE 95! 🏀 Illinois State head coach Ryan Pedon joins Bird Fans 4 Ever for an inside look at what it really takes to build a college basketball season. 🎙️ How do you build a schedule that helps a team grow?

Coach Pedon takes us behind the scenes of scheduling—balancing non-conference opportunities, home-court atmosphere, travel demands, and the grind of Valley play. He explains how the right opponents can expose weaknesses, build confidence, and prepare a team for the challenges ahead. Then, we dive into the Redbirds 🔴⚪️

Pedon breaks down:
▪️ The returning core bringing leadership and continuity
▪️ The newcomers and what each player brings to the roster
▪️ The internal competition pushing everyone to improve
▪️ The development of this team’s identity
▪️ Why toughness, connectedness, and doing the little things right could make a difference

From constructing the schedule to constructing the team, Coach Pedon gives Bird Fans 4 Ever a rare look at the process behind the program.

🎧 Episode 95 is one Redbird fans won’t want to miss!

👉 Subscribe and follow Birdfans4Ever so you never miss an episode.

🔴⚪️ Go ‘Birds!

#BirdFans4Ever #IllinoisState #Redbirds #GoBirds #IllinoisStateBasketball

Bird Fans 4 Ever sits down with one of the greatest defensive backs ever to wear the Redbird uniform — Mike Prior, a standout at Illinois State from 1981–1984 who went on to carve out a remarkable 13‑year NFL career with the Buccaneers, Colts, and Packers. Mike takes us through his journey as a two‑sport athlete, starring not only on the football field but also as a key contributor on the ISU baseball team.