We're In One

What do you do when the life you've built for nearly two decades suddenly hits a dead end? Last week, my special guest Brittany Lucic and I started a conversation that was as real as it gets, and today, we're finishing it. We're diving into that "reckoning" moment: the kind of raw, seven-hour talk that happens when you're days away from a divorce and finally decide to lay everything on the table. Today, Brittany opens up about the side of this league that never makes the highlights. We're talking about the physical and mental toll of being the "villain," the secret injuries players carry just to keep their spot on the roster, and the terrifying reality of navigating a family crisis under a microscope. But more than the hockey of it all, this is a story about what happens when you stop waiting for someone else to change and start doing the work for yourself. From finding a sense of peace in the Scottish highlands to learning how to lead with grace instead of resentment, Brittany's perspective is the breath of fresh air we all need. Settle in, because this conclusion is one that's going to stay with you. I want to give a big thanks to Brittany for sharing such a personal story, and you can follow her journey further, @brittanylucic, on Instagram. If her story resonates or inspires you we'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 of the podcast!  Just some of the highlights you'll hear:  The raw reality of the 7-hour reckoning that occurred days before a finalized divorce and how it changed the trajectory of their family's future How to navigate heavy conversations around rehab and addiction with children so they feel supported without carrying the weight of adult issues A rare look at the invisible physical toll of the game and the story of Milan playing through a broken leg just to protect his career and trade value Why Brittany chooses to lead with empathy instead of anger when facing public slander and the damaged humans behind digital harassment Milan's evolution from denial to advocacy and how he now works behind the scenes to help other players navigate the stigma of mental health Defining the mission of Reclaimed Grace and why Brittany believes a partnership can only survive if both people are committed to individual growth Finding peace through the move to Scotland and the magic of seeing her children attend the same school as their great-grandparents Understanding the gentle soul behind the grit and why you can't judge the human by the character they play on the ice   LINKS:  Brittany's Website/The Reclaimed Grace Journey Her Instagram  Milan's Hockey Profile 

How do you navigate the most public, high-pressure seasons of your life when the private reality is falling apart behind the scenes? Today, I'm sitting down with Brittany Lucic for a conversation that, trust me, is as raw and unfiltered as it gets. We're pulling back the curtain on nearly two decades in the NHL. Brittany is refreshingly honest about the reality of marriage under the spotlight, the complex dynamics of family trauma, and the moment she realized that "playing the game" meant she had to stop performing for others and start showing up for herself. Whether you've struggled to find your footing in a new city or are navigating your own season of heavy transition, this conversation is the breath of fresh air every hockey group chat needs. Next time, you won't want to miss the conclusion of my chat with Brittany, where we pick up right where we left off to discuss the path toward healing, reconciliation, and what happens when you finally decide to walk your own way. Grab your drink, settle in, and get ready for a conversation that will stay with you long after it's over! Did something in this conversation I had with Brittany 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:  The ruthless evolution of NHL WAG culture and why Brittany made it a non-negotiable mission to foster an inclusive community for new wives and girlfriends An honest look at the "big bad" Bruins era in Boston and the intense, high-pressure reality of navigating the city as a young, college-aged partner How Brittany and Milan managed the extreme public scrutiny and safety concerns during the 2011 Stanley Cup run in Vancouver Brittany opens up about the devastating loss of Milan's father and the subsequent struggle to navigate grief while raising three children Why she believes you cannot wait for a community to find you and the importance of being an active support for the other women in the league A behind-the-scenes look at the invisible pressures of professional sports How Brittany navigated the media bombardment during her most difficult season and the decision to prioritize her children's well-being above all else Her powerful perspective on why she refused to adopt a victim mentality, choosing instead to focus on accountability, Al-Anon, and personal growth What inspired the launch of Reclaimed Grace and why Brittany is so passionate about helping women find their identity beyond their partner's career The vital importance of showing up for your own life and why Brittany believes the truth will always set you free LINKS:  Brittany's Website/The Reclaimed Grace Journey Her Instagram  Milan's Hockey Profile 

How do you handle the "midlife unraveling" when your body, your family, and your identity all seem to be shifting at the exact same time? Today, I'm sitting down with my long-time friend Petra Boumedienne for a conversation that is an absolute masterclass in resilience and self-discovery. Petra and I go back nearly 18 years, and in that time, she has navigated 19 different organizations across her husband Josef's 15-year pro career. But as she refreshingly shares today, her journey didn't end when the skates were hung up. We dig deep into her transition from "hockey wife" to functional medicine expert and author, exploring the often invisible side of health that most doctors completely miss.  ​​Whether you are navigating an empty nest, struggling to find your energy again, or just trying to remember who you are outside of the rink, this episode is the deep dive you've been waiting for. This isn't just a talk about hormones; it's a look at how we reclaim our power in a season of life that often tries to take it away. I'm so excited for you to hear Petra's perspective, so let's get into it!  Did something in this conversation I had with Petra 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:  Why Petra believes moving through seven countries by age seven built a unique sense of human closeness and adaptability in her boys An inside look at why looking for the root cause is the key to navigating perimenopause and why conventional medicine often fails women in midlife The reasons that stabilizing your blood sugar is the single most important action you can take to stop the afternoon crashes and midnight sweats Petra reveals the hormonal shifts men experience (especially retiring athletes) and why we need to start talking about their loss of confidence and testosterone Why she refuses to accept the idea that it's finally "her turn" now that Josef has retired, and her advice for finding your own lane in this lifestyle What inspired Petra to write a novel where the transition of midlife is actually a character, making the science of our bodies finally feel relatable and human The non-negotiable lifestyle habits she uses to maintain high performance while raising three elite athletes A powerful perspective on why you should never perform for others' expectations and the importance of staying true to your own interests, no matter where the game takes you LINKS:  Petra's Book, What I Didn't Know I Needed: A novel about perimenopause, change, and coming home to yourself  Petra's Website & Instagram Josef's Player Profile   

How do you build a future that's bigger than the game while you're still living in the thick of a contract year? Today, I'm sitting down with the incredible Madison Marshall, and she is pull-no-punches honest about what it really takes to thrive as an import partner in a new country. We're talking about the transition from hockey wife to business owner with the launch of The Hockey House MN, and why Madison believes preparing for the next chapter is the most productive thing a couple can do for their current season. From building community and inclusivity with all of the wives/girlfriends (regardless of what stage of life they're in) to the logistical chaos of explaining a career with no permanent zip code to family back home, Madison shares the strategic roadmap for staying level-headed when the highs are high and the lows are subterranean. If you've ever felt like an outcast in a new city or wondered how to turn a passion project into a community staple, Madison is here to show you the way. Grab a beer and settle in, because this conversation is the breath of fresh air every hockey group chat needs! Did something in this conversation I had with Madison 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:  Why you can't wait for a community to find you and how being an active villager is the only way to build a real support system The origin story of how Madison and Ben turned a supply and demand gap in the Twin Cities into an elite, small-group training brand A look into the unwritten rules of game night etiquette and why Madison believes leading with an open invite is the only way to ensure no one feels like an outcast A relatable breakdown of the specific stress of a season where everything counts and nobody has a plan The ways in which Ben helps bring Madison back to center when the lifestyle feels overwhelming An honest conversation on why maintaining relationships with friends and family back home is something you have to actively work on and prioritize The honest admission Madison has about being more ritual-focused than the guy on the ice What she's doing to smash the stigma around retirement and why she is a huge advocate for preparing for the next chapter now The expert-level strategy used by Madison for making a temporary apartment in Germany feel like a permanent home Some of the non-negotiable food items and comforts she hauls overseas to keep homesickness at bay   LINKS:  Madison's TikTok, YouTube & Instagram The Hockey House's Website   Ben's Hockey Profile  12: Vibes, Vision & Living Fully : How Catie McDonald Built a Life Through Hockey  11: Unsupervised : No Game Plan (My Solo Episode) 

How do you go from a viral TikTok about losing your job to a thriving remote career in Germany? Today, I'm sitting down with the absolute breath of fresh air that is Catie McDonald, and she's giving us the real, unfiltered look at life as an import partner. We're diving into the logistical nightmare of moving a 70lb Labradoodle across Europe and why Catie is the self-proclaimed "saleswoman" for the hidden gem of Slovenia. From the middle-child luck of double-income households to the hilarious reality of being the spare human to a dog who only has eyes for her hockey-dad husband, Catie is a masterclass in making the most of every zip code. She also drops some serious knowledge on the non-sexy side of the business(like the one thing you must have in your contract) and why saying yes to uncomfortable social situations is the only way to build your village from scratch. We even bond over our shared illness of pre-game superstitions and the essential snacks we haul overseas just to feel a little bit of home. If you're ready to stop playing it safe and start leaning into the beautiful mishaps of this lifestyle, this conversation is your roadmap. Grab a drink and settle in, because Catie is about to become your new favorite hockey sister! Did something in this conversation I had with Catie 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:  Catie shares why she is the #1 advocate for the hidden gem of Slovenia and describes the magic of charcuterie on Budapest's Chain Bridge The surreal story of how a viral TikTok about losing her job actually landed Catie her current remote career in digital marketing A breakdown of the stress, high costs, and confusing paperwork involved in moving a "service dog" (who is actually a 70lb Labradoodle) across EU borders A look into the benefits of a double-income hockey household and the "middle-child luck" that allows Catie to thrive in sales while living in Germany What Catie and I think of pet loyalty and why the dogs always treat the "hockey dad" like a returning king while Mom is just the one who provides the snacks Why saying "yes" to uncomfortable social situations is the only way to build a support system from scratch as a hockey wife in a new city A relatable breakdown of the "illness" of hockey superstitions, from identical pre-game rituals to the wives accidentally eating heavy pre-game meals because they're "just there" Catie's super smart advice for new partners and what you absolutely have to consider about contracts in this professional hockey life we live  Her honest admission about being a "vibes" girl who relies on the crowd's reaction to know when to be angry, especially in the different atmosphere of German hockey The essential comforts Catie hauls overseas, including American Advil, high-sugar granola, and the spice blends that keep homesickness at bay LINKS:  Catie's TikTok & Instagram  Trevor's Hockey Profile  11: Unsupervised : No Game Plan (My Solo Episode)  

What do you actually do when you've driven 39 hours across Europe only to realize you're locked inside a Wi-Fi-less apartment with a dog that needs to pee and a husband who has the only key? Why does it feel like a personal betrayal to leave a season seat in Scotland, and is the "coaching transition" really just a glorified lesson in instability? I'm flying solo this week with my very first Q&A episode to answer the messy, blunt, and as you'll hear, occasionally spicy questions you sent my way. We're getting into the "milestone tax" of missing weddings back home, the absurdity of finding a fully staffed office in my supposed living room in Poland, and the Canadian survival kit I force my guests to smuggle through customs. I'm even addressing that one "See You Next Tuesday" DM because, let's be real, someone had to, and if you know me, I just had to respond.  This life is a beautiful, exhausting, zero-star disaster sometimes, and it's about time we talked about the parts that don't make the highlight reel. If you've ever felt like a stranger at your own family's dinner table or just want to know how we survive 18 moves, pull up a chair and settle in for this one!  I want to thank everybody who sent in questions, and as always, for listening and your support. If you like this style of episode, maybe I'll do another one and your question could be answered next time! If there are any other topics you would like to hear, or if you'd like to appear as a guest here, please don't hesitate to reach out to me and send me a little message on Instagram, @wereinonepod. We'll see you back soon for another hard-hitting episode!  Just some of the highlights you'll hear:  The one specific mindset I've realized you have to adopt to survive the constant change after decades in this professional hockey lifestyle What I'd like others to understand about the "milestone tax" we pay every time a birthday or a retirement party happens without us back home A move we made that showed us the gold standard for how an organization should treat a family - and it changed my entire perspective on relocation I get real about whether constant moving actually hurts our kids or if it's secretly their biggest competitive advantage in life Why I'm calling out the unwritten rules about how coaches' wives are "supposed" to behave How on some days I'd give this life zero stars and a "do not recommend" warning, but there's one reward that keeps me from walking away Why leaving Scotland was so heartbreaking and felt like I was abandoning a family member The story of the time we were literally locked inside a temporary apartment for six hours with no phones, no Wi-Fi, and a dog that really needed to go out My "Canadian Survival Kit" and the three non-negotiables I make every visitor smuggle through customs for me A frustrating situation when we discovered a fully functioning business operating inside what was supposed to be our living room Why the move to behind the bench is 100% less secure than being on the ice, and how we handle the pressure of knowing the coach is always the first to go You'll get to hear a hate message and the "spicy" DM I received from a troll (yes, I'm sharing the unintelligent question they asked and the exact response I sent back) A final reminder of why I'm so grateful for this amazing life that we choose to live  LINKS:  09: 23 Years of Hockey Life: Identity, New Beginnings, and Building a Family with Bianca Lajeunesse Aubin  

What happens when the hockey "dream" is suddenly interrupted by a life-altering tragedy? How do you find the strength to heal when your world is moving cities every few months? My special guest today is the firecracker that is April McCallum, and her story is a masterclass in resilience.  From the heartbreaking moment her partner Jordan Cownie signed with her late father's favorite team to honor his legacy, to the "ringleader" energy she brings to every locker room, April isn't just along for the ride - she's driving the fun!  We're diving into the reality of pivoting from a thankless career to finding professional stability, the secret "sisterhood" of the UK hockey scene, and why she's making sure the women behind the players get their own trophies too. We even scheme about the ultimate post-season escape: an overdue girls' night in Budapest… If you've ever felt lost in the shuffle of a partner's career or just need a reminder of the power of a supportive community, what are you waiting for? Hit play because this one with April is just what you've been waiting for!  Did something in this conversation I had with April 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:  April shares the surreal story of meeting Jordan online and discovering their bizarrely intertwined roots between Glasgow and Milton Keynes  A look into the unique structure of the EIHL and NIHL through her partner's career path and the distinction between "import" and "local" player dynamics How the Guildford Flames organization and April's "hockey sisters" provided a vital support system during her healing journey after the sudden loss of her father The way April and Jordan honored her father by returning to the Glasgow Clan arena and sitting in his season ticket seat April's 10-year journey in property management and her strategic shift into the software industry to build professional stability, all while living the hockey lifestyle Why she took on the role of the team organizer in Milton Keynes and some of the cool things she did to foster inclusivity  A humorous breakdown of the common misconceptions about the lifestyle and why most wives are actually social butterflies who rarely know the final score of the game The logistical (and expensive!) challenges of moving dogs across Europe and the UK LINKS:  Jordan's Hockey Profile   

What happens when the "dream life" of a pro-hockey partner hits the reality of needing your own identity? Can you actually build something for yourself when your entire life is at the mercy of the next trade or a contract in Europe? Today's episode is a bit longer, but trust me, you need every minute of the 23 years of stories my guest Bianca is sharing. She's lived the ultimate pivot, from the quiet (and sometimes lonely) grind of raising a family in Germany to the sheer grit it takes to launch a business in a country where you don't even speak the language. We're getting into the real stuff: the power of the "hockey wife" survival sisterhood, the struggle to keep your own professional fire burning, and how to stay grounded when you're living without a permanent map.  If you've ever felt like you were living in the shadow of someone else's career and you're ready for a serious shot of ambition and truth, then hit play because we're going deep in this one. Did something in this conversation I had with Bianca 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:  Bianca's early transition into the hockey world and the unique perspective she gained while navigating her partner's career in Canada and abroad\ The emotional (and logistical) reality of moving a young family across borders, including the specific challenges of settling into life in Germany A deep dive into Bianca's entrepreneurial journey and how she successfully balanced raising children while launching a business in a foreign country Some of the big ways that the "hockey wife" community serves as a vital support system for her The strategic ways Bianca pivoted her professional skills to adapt to the European market as she grows her own empire Her thoughts on navigating the language barrier and cultural shifts in local communities she's lived in with her family Bianca's insightful advice on managing the high-pressure "waiting game" of contract seasons and the uncertainty of professional sports life The evolution of her own personal brand and how she leveraged her unique experiences to inspire other women in similar transition periods A look at the long-term career planning required for life after hockey and the steps Bianca and her family are taking to prepare for the next chapter Reflections on the enduring strength of the "Canadian connection" and something that Bianca just can't live without when being away from Quebec  LINKS:  Bianca's Instagram Brent's Hockey Profile   

Ever wondered if it's possible to build a global empire when your home base changes with every trade? It sure is, and today's guest is living proof. My girl Chelsea Brown Pelech scaled a high-impact social enterprise while living out of a suitcase at the behest of a pro hockey contract. This powerhouse refused to let the "hockey wife" label define her, and today, you'll get to meet her and hear all about it!  In this episode, Chelsea reveals the raw, unscripted reality of founding Millie, a for-purpose business empowering women globally, while navigating 15-hour bus rides and the soul-crushing chaos of international visas. This isn't your typical "behind the scenes" fluff. We're talking about the grit required to maintain professional autonomy in a world that expects you to just sit and watch from the stands.  If you're tired of the filtered version of sports life and want the real story of ambition, impact, and survival, hit play. We're going deep, and we're not holding back. Learn more at www.millie.ca and join the conversation on Instagram @wereinonepod. Let's get into it! Just some of the highlights you'll hear:  Mike's incredible achievement of reaching 1,000 professional games and the resilience required to maintain a career of that length The challenges and growth that came with navigating a long-distance relationship for 6 years while Chelsea established her own professional identity The inspiring origin story of Chelsea's social enterprise, Millie, which focuses on the economic empowerment of women and artisan communities Her strategic shift during the lockdowns, moving from impact travel to launching a podcast to continue amplifying the voices of women-led organizations Chelsea's heartwarming story of rescuing her dog from the streets and the logistical hurdles that were faced bringing a rescue pet into the nomadic life of a professional athlete A look at the often-hidden financial and legal hurdles of being a hockey partner, including the high costs and restrictions of UK and US work visas What happened with a high-stakes career pivot at the Canadian border and how it all worked out in the end for Chelsea and Mike How the unconventional nature of the hockey world ultimately served as a catalyst for Chelsea's career growth LINKS:  The Millie Community Website, Instagram & Podcast Young Epilepsy Website & Instagram  Zimbabwe Educational Trust Website & Instagram  Mike's Hockey Profile  

How do you handle the sudden, shocking end to a 16-year career? And what happens when a hockey life filled with structure and sacrifice gives way to a "real life" you're no longer prepared for? In the powerful conclusion of my conversation with Mathieu "Tousy" Tousignant, Mathieu shares the emotional gut-punch of his forced retirement, revealing the raw truth behind the saying that a professional athlete "dies twice." He opens up about adjusting to civilian life, from managing a schedule without game-day focus to the surprising challenge of changing winter tires, and so much more. You'll also hear about Tousy's new roles in coaching and training, which keep his passion alive, and the extraordinary story of his partner, Claudhel. Learn how she is the "yin to his yang" and his greatest supporter, including the unforgettable way they met (and the job she took to stay with Mathieu during a season abroad)... Stay until the end for the hilarious inside scoop on the best on-ice chirps and the story of the toughest fight he ever took. Again, this is a brutally honest and genuinely uplifting look at finding passion and purpose after the uniform comes off, and if you missed it, make sure to check out Part One of this incredible conversation I had with Mathieu!   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:  The emotional reality of Mathieu's forced retirement following back surgery and the powerful moment he realized "a professional athlete dies twice." A behind-the-scenes look at the intense summer training schedule he had while playing that most fans don't see, including the many sacrifices made over the years Mathieu's post-career pivot, covering his new role coaching M15-level youth hockey, working as a skill coach, and finding renewed passion as a personal trainer in Quebec The whirlwind story of meeting his long-time partner, Claudhel, falling in love almost instantly, and her decision to move to Germany with him just 2.5 months later How she worked a small, unexpected job at a German restaurant "peeling potatoes for a visa" just to be able to stay with him during his season abroad A candid discussion on the heavy emotional toll his fighting and big hits took on his partner, especially after concussions, and the constant support she provided through multiple surgeries The big ways in which life looks different now post-retirement for both Mathieu and Claudhel A hilarious recap of the funniest and most memorable chirps heard on the ice, and what a grocery stick has to do with hockey… LINKS:  Mathieu's Player Profile   

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   

What if the love of your life lived across the Atlantic, and pursuing that relationship meant giving up the successful career you worked so hard to build? Today's special guest is Kennedy Forbes, an American who (in her own words) knew "nothing about" hockey but ended up marrying a Scottish player, Alex Forbes, and moving her life overseas.  How do you cope with the deep "embarrassment" of being unable to work due to complex visa laws, and what happens when family members judge your life choices? Kennedy breaks it all down in this one, and you are going to want to miss what she has to say…. Kennedy takes us through the hilarious cultural shocks, from confusing cilantro with coriander to dealing with the terrifying reality of driving on narrow Scottish country roads. She reveals the profound personal sacrifices, like putting a career on hold and the constant emotional toll of having "three homes" while dealing with the guilt of leaving family behind. She also shares the essential partner survival guide: realizing you don't have to be "best friends with everyone" and learning to block out the noise of outside pressure, and a whole lot more.  This conversation is an honest look at the chaotic, yet fiercely loving, life of a hockey partner dealing with international borders, cultural divides, and finding her own identity. Press play to hear how Kennedy found her footing and why she ultimately wouldn't trade this unpredictable life for anything in the world!  Did something in this conversation I had with Kennedy 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:  How an American girl who had never watched a hockey game in her life ended up meeting and falling for a Scottish player in Utah The behind-the-scenes of Kennedy's decision as an 18-year old to fly across the world for a boy she hadn't introduced to her mother to The reason couple briefly broke up and the what led to them reuniting and moving forward with their relationship How she's learned that the only way to survive the mental strain of the hockey partner lifestyle is to block out the noise of outside judgment Kennedy's insights on being married to a player from a different country, having three different homes and dealing with the constant feeling of being pulled in a million different directions Why the family-oriented atmosphere of the Glasgow team stood out so much to her compared to the initial social struggles of their first year in Coventry The raw truth about the financial and personal sacrifices of the hockey lifestyle, specifically putting your own dreams on hold for years What the biggest culture shock was for Kennedy when moving to Scotland, the big realization she made about coriander and cilantro, and why Halloween is such a special time for her How terrifying it was for Kennedy to learn to drive on the opposite side of the road, while dealing with aggressive drivers on narrow country lanes  LINKS:  Kennedy's Instagram  04: Living in the Moment: A New Hockey Wife's Guide with Audrey Somoza  

Imagine this....you're faced with the decision to leave a 7-year career as a stable ICU nurse in the town you grew up in, complete with a leadership role and financial security, to follow a hockey player you barely know across the globe? What do you do, and how do you deal with the "witching hour" of contract negotiations while living with your parents and trying to avoid the constant question: "Where are you going next year?" Today, I'm sitting down with an amazing young woman, Audrey Somoza, wife of European veteran Ethan Somoza, for a conversation that's as real and refreshing as it gets.  Audrey shares the feeling of entering the hockey world blind, the intimidation of a new social scene, and the initial shock of moving to Budapest, Hungary, where she had to "get comfortable just feeling dumb" while navigating a foreign city. We talk about the guilt of hitting pause on her nursing career, the unexpected community she found documenting her life on TikTok (and the viral story that landed her in People Magazine!), along with so much more. This conversation is an honest look at surrendering to a life you never planned, finding joy in the constant movement, and appreciating the "blip of your life" that is the short, incredible ride of professional hockey. You won't want to miss Audrey's powerful perspective on growth and seizing every moment! Did something in this conversation I had with Audrey 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:  How Audrey met her husband Ethan and why he decided to stay in the ECHL for an extra year to build the foundation of their relationship What motivated Audrey, a former ICU nurse, to leave her stable, leadership-role career to join Ethan on their global adventures The reasons she encourages him to play the game as long as he can, and the inspiring perspective on living in the moment that she lives by How entering the European hockey world in Budapest forced Audrey out of her comfort zone while initially navigating the city and going to games alone The story of what led to her viral TikTok video and how it ultimately resulted in her and Ethan being featured in People and Yahoo Audrey's candid thoughts on the struggle to find remote work led and the professional avenue she is now considering pursuing What no one warned her about before joining the hockey world, and why the best advice she can give others is to simply surrender to the experience and enjoy the ride LINKS:  Audrey's Instagram & TikTok  Woman Stunned When She Spots Fiancé in Background of Old Video on Her Phone Taken Months Before They Met (People Exclusive)  

How do you find your footing in a foreign country after falling in love with a professional hockey player, living a life you swore you'd never live? And what happens when a secret teenage fling is rekindled a decade later with a persistent DM? I am so excited to chat with Tori O'Connor, wife of undrafted European veteran Ryan O'Connor, as she gets raw and real about her journey from an independent tech sales career to embracing the "two lives" of a European hockey wife and mom. Tori opens up about the shock of expectations versus reality in German hockey towns, the lonely days of working remote Eastern hours from Europe, and the savage intensity of European fans. Plus, you'll hear Tori's unbelievable, 5-hour natural birth story in a German hospital that involved a "sunny side up" flip, two black eyes, and an umbilical cord scare, all while her husband was texting the coach about Sunday's game!  This episode is about realizing that sometimes, the biggest wins are just finding your support system when you're thousands of miles from home. I am so honored that Tori joined me and was so open to share her experiences with us, and I can't wait for you to hear the unfiltered truth of sacrifice, surprise, and finding pride in a life you never planned. Did something in this conversation I had with Tori 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:  The incredible story of how an undrafted player's career can lead to incredible success across the globe Tori and Ryan's secret college relationship and what happened when couple reconnected much later through social media What it's like to balance a full-time tech sales job remotely with the European hockey life, and some of the challenges Tori faces in this role Tips for successfully navigating a late-term international flight while pregnant, plus the surprisingly common side effect of a 9-hour flight How Tori's natural birth in Germany resulted in a five-hour pushing marathon, a "sunny side up" baby flip, and two black eyes The crucial post-birth support system she received in Germany that is non-existent in Canada What fan passion really looks like in Europe and a few of the crazy stories that demonstrates their enthusiasm for the game Why you might look back on the professional athlete life after it's over and realize your identity as a hockey wife became something you learned to be proud of   

Have you ever wondered what happens when a hockey player's career dream and their family dream collide? In this episode, I chat with someone that I've known for a long time (in fact, he and my husband Jay won the Calder Cup together way back in 2001)!  My guest today is the one and only Levente Szuper, the only Hungarian goaltender to ever be drafted into the NHL, and he's here to uncover the real, raw, and sometimes messy truth of a hockey life. Levente takes us through his wild, almost unbelievable journey from a child actor and pianist in Budapest to a Calder Cup winner in North America. He gets brutally honest about the decision to retire at the height of his career, the epic story of his last-minute Memorial Cup win, and why he played in a World Championship after not even putting on his goalie gear for a year.  This isn't your average hockey story; Levente's is a true Cinderella story that is so unbelievable that you have to listen to it to believe. It's about finding your place, living two lifetimes in one, and realizing that sometimes, the biggest wins happen off the ice. Did something in this conversation I had with Levente 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:  How acting, music, and a multi-sport upbringing created an unconventional path for this future NHL-drafted goaltender Why the most exciting thing in Levente's career was also the most devastating moment: winning the Memorial Cup after being pulled in a previous game The reason professional scouts and general managers were afraid to draft him, despite his record-breaking rookie season How Levente and his wife, Amy, overcame the intense challenges of long-distance and a professional hockey lifestyle to build a strong partnership that endures today Why this promising 32-year-old goaltender decided to retire at the top of his game after the birth of his first child A behind-the-scenes of Levente's incredible comeback: playing in a World Championship tournament as the starting goalie after a full year of retirement Some of the struggles he faced off the ice in a management capacity in Hungary from a culture he no longer understood How Levente has found his true purpose living a "simple life" as an author, broadcaster, and dedicated family man  

Is the professional hockey lifestyle really as glamorous as it seems? What happens when your entire identity is tied to someone else's career, and you're forced to live a nomadic life? To kick off things in this very first episode of We're In One, I sit down with Krystie Letang to dive into the raw and unfiltered reality behind the rink, and trust me, we're not holding anything back. Krystie is married to Alan Letang , former Professional hockey player turned coach. After decades in the game, Krystie reveals the true cost of the pro hockey lifestyle and why it's so misunderstood. She gets real about the loneliness of being a coach's wife, the shocking truth that the loneliest job in hockey actually isn't that of the coach, shares the brutal, in-your-face advice she has for the next generation, and a whole lot more.  So grab a drink of wine or your favorite beverage, buckle up and hit "play", because this isn't your average hockey story; this is the real, unapologetic truth. Krystie and I just scratched the surface in this conversation and as you'll hear, we have so much more to talk about. If you'd like me to bring Krystie back for a Part Two, 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:  Some of the sacrifices involved in the demanding lifestyle of professional hockey How we've both come to realize the way to make a team work is to create a family where everyone is willing to go to war for each other Why the loneliest job in hockey is not the head coach, but the coach's wife How living abroad has given us the unique freedom to raise our kids "old school" and without judgment The truth behind the misconception that a professional hockey wife's life is just "one long vacation" Why the transition from a player's wife to a coach's wife requires a whole new level of investment Why the professional hockey lifestyle can be so unrelatable and confusing to those who have never experienced it What the advice "play until they kick you out" means to Krystie and I   

That's right, We're In One is coming soon! If you don't want to miss a single episode when we officially launch, here is your friendly little nudge to go ahead and hit that follow/subscribe button on your favorite podcast app. And, if you're vibing with us, leaving a quick rating and review would mean the world. Don't forget to swing by and follow our fresh new Instagram, @wereinonepod, and catch some behind-the-scenes, sneak peeks and all the fun. New episodes are coming real soon, and we've got lots to talk about – so stay tuned!