I earned my PhD in Human Genetics at a time when scientists were hotly debating the feasibility and wisdom of The Human Genome Project. Fortunately, the visionaries and risk-takers prevailed and as a consequence, we have witnessed an astounding growth in genomic data. The next big challenge is moving that data to knowledge to improve the health of all people. While the technical hurdles to applied genomics are falling fast, many questions remain regarding genetic privacy, fair and equal access and possible impact on health insurance coverage. Educating not only health care providers and consumers, but policy and law makers will be crucial. For more than two decades, my work has focused on using current technology and knowledge of the genetic underpinnings of human biology to help solve clinical problems. Along the way, I have also tried to challenge people who were both strong advocates and resolute naysayers about the potential of this post-genomic era.