Coronaviruses had been a major concern as infectious agents with pandemic-causing potential, years before the COVID-19 pandemic. Advancements in DNA sequencing mechanisms can help us detect pathogens early and study them appropriately. So why were we still not prepared for the COVID-19 pandemic? In this episode we discuss the challenges of pandemic preparedness and evaluate the response to COVID-19 by key players such as national governments and the World Health Organisation. We also reflect on lessons learned and what could be done differently.