The Idea Man's Last Big Idea: Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in his own words

from GeekWire · host GeekWire

In light of his estate's launch of the new $3.1 billion Fund for Science and Technology, we revisit a classic 2011 interview with the late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen to explore the "Idea Man" mindset that continues to shape his legacy. The conversation reveals the personal motivations behind his "big bet" philanthropy, his candid thoughts on his partnership with Bill Gates, and his passion for everything from brain science to jamming with rock stars. Related stories and links:  Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s final act: New $3.1B foundation bets big on science and tech In an age of billionaire backlash, Paul Allen’s lasting legacy stands out in Seattle With GeekWire's Todd Bishop and Kurt Schlosser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Aug 30, 2025

Embed this episode

Attribution link and audio player

NOW PLAYING

The Idea Man's Last Big Idea: Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in his own words

0:00 50:22

1×

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Share this episode

Similar Episodes

No similar episodes found.

Similar Podcasts

GeekWire Health Tech GeekWire Health Tech is a GeekWire podcast that explores the cutting edge of digital health. On each episode, we bring you stories about innovative technologies for patients, doctors and more, giving you a window into the future of health. Our fifth season is sponsored by Premera Blue Cross. Learn more about Premera here: https://www.premera.com/premera-voices/ Numbers Geek with Steve Ballmer GeekWire Numbers Geek is the podcast where we use numbers and data to make sense of the world. We take on issues from education to politics to basketball and beyond — with leaders in business, tech and entertainment. Our resident Numbers Geek is Steve Ballmer, the former Microsoft CEO and current owner of the L.A. Clippers. Numbers Geek is a GeekWire podcast, produced in partnership with USAFacts, the nonprofit data initiative founded by Ballmer. Generation App GeekWire Generation App is a window into the world of millennials, through the apps and online services they love and share with their friends. In GeekWire's new weekly podcast, digital natives school tech dinosaurs with inside tips and secrets about some of the hottest apps on the market — Tinder, Snapchat, Venmo and more. Geared Up with Andru Edwards Andru Edwards Geared Up is the weekly podcast and live video show from GeekWire and Gear Live. Hosted by veteran tech reviewer Andru Edwards, Geared Up features the latest news in consumer electronics and video games, plus hands-on time with the hottest tech gadgets and gear.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of GeekWire?

This episode is 50 minutes long.

When was this GeekWire episode published?

This episode was published on August 30, 2025.

Can I download this GeekWire episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.

URL copied to clipboard!