How do you force yourself into pro hockey? And what do you do when the ultimate dream turns into a 16-year journey defined by grit, injuries , and a last-minute flight across the Atlantic?

I'm joined by Canadian veteran Mathieu "Tousy" Tousignant to discuss his raw and real path from being undrafted to the notorious "pest on skates." He opens up about the non-glamorous AHL realities, the culture shock of living on a German farm, the hilarious terror of his first ride on the 300 km/h Autobahn, and so much more.

Mathieu reveals the emotional cost of playing with his style, including two back surgeries . From feeling the stress of getting tickets to the game for his family, to the potent Palinka shots after winning a championship with my husband, this is a brutally honest look at the grind and the unforgettable memories of a true hockey journeyman with a passion for the game that is second-to-none.

As you'll get to hear, Mathieu's energy is so infectious that you just can't help but love him. This conversation was so good that I just knew I had to keep the recording rolling, and we'll be bringing you Part Two in a few short weeks…you won't want to miss it!

Did something in this conversation I had with Mathieu resonate with you? I'd love to hear about it, so let us know over on Instagram, @wereinonepod, and we'll see you back soon for another hard-hitting episode!

Just some of the highlights you'll hear:

• Mathieu's undrafted hockey journey and the early dedication that propelled his career from a young age

• The unexpected culture shock of his first pro stop as a fan favorite in Texas, including the language barrier and the dramatic reality of American life off of the ice

• How Mathieu undertook the process of changing his game to become an agitator, taking on the role of "the pest on skates" to earn a spot and thrive in the AHL

• A behind-the-scenes look at his chaotic, last-minute decision to sign with Ravensburg in Germany (DEL2), receiving his contract and plane ticket and flying out the same day

• The shocking first experience Mathieu had on the German Autobahn, where he realized cars could pass him at speeds up to 300 kilometers per hour

• Why he considers his career in Frankfurt, Germany, a turning point in his professional hockey career

• His experience winning a championship with Nottingham (EIHL), and why he considers this his "best season ever"

• The emotional story of Mathieu's forced retirement following a severe hit that resulted in his second back surgery, marking the end of his playing career

LINKS:

Mathieu's Player Profile