Born in Alaska to Christian parents, longtime NHL player Nate Thompson converted to Judaism after meeting a nice Jewish girl. But his story isn’t exactly what people expect. The Menschwarmers chat with Thompson, who was recently traded to the Montreal Canadiens, about his reasons for converting, plans for the new year and the great Jewish hotspots of Montreal. Plus: Gabe and Jamie ask which Jewish holidays have the most mainstream appeal, and a fond farewell to Bob Tufts.

Menschwarmers is hosted by Gabe Pulver and Jamie Hirsh, and produced and edited by Alex Rose. Michael Fraiman is the supervising producer. Our music is “Brass” by 4bstr4ck3r feat. Daman. You can follow the Menschwarmers on Twitter and check out more podcasts by The CJN Podcast Network here.