GeekWire Radio: Is Seattle really a ‘third-tier’ startup city? Here’s how the region stacks up

New York-based venture capitalist Fred Wilson this week ranked Seattle a “third-tier” startup city, then backed down from his statement after Tren Griffin, our guest on this week’s GeekWire radio show and podcast, gave Wilson a better understanding of the situation.

We speak with Griffin about the past and future of the region’s tech community, and the opportunity for improvement. Griffin is a longtime member and advocate for the Seattle-area technology and investing community, who previously worked for wireless pioneer Craig McCaw’s Eagle River private equity firm. He’s a senior director at Microsoft, but joins us in a personal capacity.

Also read Griffin’s guest post, 12 things Seattle can teach others about jobs, economic development and building a better city.

Read more of Griffin’s perspective on his site, 25iq.com. Here’s the updated Seattle Tech Universe map that we discuss, created by the WTIA and Madrona Venture Group.

Plus, Airbnb and VRBO homeowners react to the city’s proposed regulations to limit the number of nights non-resident property owners can offer up homes and rooms for short-term accommodations. GeekWire reporter and producer Monica Nickelsburg joins us to share details from her follow-up story on the topic.

And finally, it’s the return of our GeekWire Trivia Challenge, with a chance to win tickets to “The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses — Master Quest,” Sept. 14 at the Seattle Symphony. Listen for the question starting at 18:15.

Listen to the full episode below or download the MP3 here.