This week on the GeekWire Podcast, we discuss Elon Musk's lawsuit against OpenAI, which now includes Microsoft, and assess the complexities of the OpenAI-Microsoft partnership, as illustrated by early email exchanges revealed in the lawsuit.

We also consider the latest update to the GeekWire 200, our ranked index of Pacific Northwest technology startups, including the rise of Highspot to the top spot, and other trends in the Seattle region's startup ecosystem. 

And we share highlights from tech events around the region this week, including the WTIA's 40th Anniversary, where Mayor Bruce Harrell addressed AI and the incoming presidential administration; and an interesting takeaway from a panel of startup leaders whose companies made the latest Deloitte Technology Fast 500 list. 

Related links and coverage

• Internal emails: Elon Musk wanted to keep OpenAI from becoming ‘Microsoft’s marketing bitch’
• GeekWire 200 update: A new No. 1 rises to the top of our startup rankings
• WTIA honors 40 years of boosting Washington’s tech sector as new CEO aims for more impact
• Seattle mayor, who sits on a federal AI panel, says he’ll seek ways to work with Trump administration

With GeekWire co-founders John Cook and Todd Bishop