In 1992, Mark Tewksbury “came from behind” to capture Olympic gold in the 100-metre backstroke. (Okay, I totally stole that pun from his book Inside Out.) Since his big win in the water, he’s been splashing our hearts with his inspiring storytelling and heartfelt integrity. He has graced the cover of TIME magazine, hosted shows for the Discovery Channel and, more recently, chilled with the Dalai Lama.

I caught up with Mark here in Montréal, at the recent Fierté Canada Pride Conference. We chatted about his favourite Montréal haunts.

Favourite moment: the awkward jocular handshake at the end.

(It’s tough when you’re so manly… like us.)

Check out Mark’s current project: www.thegreattraits.com