Sonia Ben Ouagrham-Gormley, an associate professor at George Mason University and Deputy Director of their Biodefense Program, discusses the barriers to bioweapon development, including the misconception that they are easy to make. She explores the challenges in acquiring and manipulating pathogens, the importance of tacit knowledge, and the risks and benefits of new technologies like AI. She calls for nuanced analysis, accurate risk assessment, and measures to prevent misuse.