Johnny Manziel is being as transparent as ever ... saying his relationship -- and divorce -- with Bre Tiesi helped him come to terms with the man he is today.
The former Heisman winner joined the "Ya Neva Know: You Know What I Mean?" with mike. (which aired Tuesday) ... and faced his past successes and struggles head-on in a truly candid setting.
When the topic of soulmates came up, Manziel detailed the impact his ex-wife had on his life ... and how she helped him find happiness after hitting a rough patch.