#Japan #Tokyo #Waseda University #Rigorous Research #Seddon Jack

Waseda University's Podcast Episode Featuring Market Design

Waseda University, located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has just launched the fourth episode of its English-language podcast, "Rigorous Research, Real Impact," titled "Market Makers: The Politics of Market Design." Available for free starting November 4, 2025, listeners can tune in through various platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, and the university's website.

In this engaging episode, Seddon Jack, an associate professor from the Graduate School of Political Science, joins Fabian, a Ph.D. candidate from the Graduate School of Economics, as they delve into the intricate structures that underpin the global economy. Drawing from his research on the London Metal Exchange, Seddon reveals how international markets are shaped by not just economic factors but also by political power dynamics and institutional designs.

The episode offers an in-depth look at Seddon’s career journey, highlighting his transition from capital market attorney to researcher. He shares insights from his experiences working in Japan and discusses the appeal of Waseda University's English degree programs, particularly for those interested in studying international political economy.

About the Podcast Series

"Waseda University Podcasts: Rigorous Research, Real Impact" is now in its second season, featuring a total of eight episodes, each lasting approximately 15 minutes. The podcast invites outstanding researchers to discuss their current work, their activities at Waseda University, and the unique features of the English degree programs offered. The series covers a diverse range of topics, including the concept of 'translanguage' within Japan’s sociolinguistic context, renowned game designer Hideo Kojima, and complex frameworks for peacebuilding.

This podcast is particularly suited for listeners considering studying at a Japanese university, current students contemplating further education in graduate school, and researchers looking at academic careers in interdisciplinary settings.

Episode Release Schedule

Episodes will be released bi-weekly:

• - Episode 5: Featuring Megumi Kagawa (Associate Professor, Graduate School of Social Sciences), discussing "Hybrid Peacebuilding: Local Voices in Conflict Resolution" (Release Date: November 18, 2025).
• - Episode 6: Featuring Pitalkupaw (Associate Professor, Graduate School of Literature), covering "Authors, Abnormality, and Identity in Modern Japan" (Release Date: December 2, 2025).
• - Episode 7: Featuring Coardo Alex (Professor, Graduate School of Commerce), discussing "University vs. Corporate Startups: A Tale of Two Entrepreneurial Paths" (Release Date: December 16, 2025).

About Waseda University

Waseda University offers English degree programs across its six faculties and fifteen graduate schools. According to the JASSO report for 2024, Waseda is noted for enrolling the highest number of international students in Japan. Furthermore, in the QS World University Rankings 2024, Waseda University is ranked within the top 100 globally in humanities and arts (overall rank 65) and social sciences and management (overall rank 99).

Follow the podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube to stay updated with valuable discussions. For more information, visit the Waseda University website.