Is gun violence pandemic a public health problem? Is there a relationship between gun violence and mental health crisis in the USA? why are poor and segregated neighborhoods disproportionately affected by gun violence in the USA? I really enjoyed discussing these questions with Michael Ulrich, Assistant Professor of Health Law, Ethics, & Human Rights at Boston University’s School of Public Health and School of Law. With Michael we also discussed his latest piece Second Amendment Realism, Forth in Cardozo Law Review which delves into the public health policy implications of the District of Columbia v. Heller case. In this seminal case the Supreme Court said that the Second Amendment protects an individual's right to keep and bear arms, unconnected with service in a militia, for traditionally lawful purposes, such as self-defense within the home. Michael also speaks about his academic path, the challenges he faced throughout his academic journey and the advice he gives students that aspire to pursue a career in the field of health law and public health. Don't miss this fascinating discussion!