Nick Zasowski joined me on Accelerate OC to discuss the recent rise of startup and venture studios globally. Speculation by those following the industry puts the number between 250 and 500 global studios, and Nick and I discussed the role they play, why they are important in the startup community, and some examples of studios that are thriving (many of which are friends to us at OC4).

Nick is currently the director of the Global Startup Studio Network (GSSN), where they have built a highly curated global community of Startup Studios and Venture Builders that create and invest in teams to build powerful businesses and make meaningful impact.

Nick and his team have identified and worked with dozens of studios around the world and are tracking emerging trends and sharing best practices.  It’s been a pleasure to get to know him over the last several months.

He’s a community builder, connector, encourager and supporter, which you'll clearly see in our conversation.