Waseda University Launches Season 3, Episode 4 of Podcast on Sustainable Business Insights

Waseda University's Podcast: Rigorous Research, Real Impact

Waseda University, located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has recently launched the fourth episode of Season 3 of its English podcast series titled "Rigorous Research, Real Impact". This episode, named "Global Goals, Local Realities: Rethinking Sustainable Business," was released on November 4, 2026. Available for free on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube, it dives deep into pressing issues surrounding sustainability in business.

Episode Overview

In this episode, Jamie, a Waseda University student, serves as the master of ceremonies and engages in a discussion with Professor Nobuki Hasegawa from the Graduate School of Social Sciences. Together, they explore the relationship between multinational enterprises (MNEs) and local communities, focusing on sustainable business practices.

An intriguing concept introduced is "Local Embeddedness," which emphasizes the significance of developing long-term relationships and trust between businesses and local communities. It stresses the importance of understanding cultural nuances and specific local challenges rather than solely aiming for universal sustainability goals. This episode makes a compelling case for why businesses need to look closely at individual regional systems, histories, and stakeholder connections to foster true sustainability.

Real-World Examples

The discussions are enriched with case studies, such as the "Kyoto Lemon Project" and the circular economy initiatives in Osaki Town, which illustrate collaborative efforts between businesses, government entities, and local communities. These examples highlight the ways businesses can leverage local characteristics to create more impactful and sustainable practices within their operational frameworks.

Furthermore, the episode also shines a light on Waseda University's English degree program, TAISI, which encourages students to adopt a cross-border perspective while remaining grounded in local realities. It emphasizes the benefits of balancing global outlooks with local insights when addressing societal challenges.

Season 3 Highlights

This season of the podcast features a diverse lineup of Waseda University researchers and student MCs engaging in accessible dialogues that bridge research with contemporary societal issues. Each 15-minute episode allows researchers to showcase their work while connecting these insights to current news and challenges faced by society today.

Themes covered include various aspects of the Japanese economy, labor and immigration issues, business practices within Japan, culture, and the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The podcast serves as an excellent resource for anyone interested in understanding the interplay between rigorous academic research and real-world implications affecting Japan and beyond.

Upcoming Episodes

The series is set to continue with several compelling topics lined up for release:

- Episode 5 (Release Date: November 25, 2026): Professor Naoko Nemoto discusses "Can Doing Good Make Good Business?" exploring the relationship between socially beneficial practices and profitable business models.
- Episode 6 (Release Date: December 16, 2026): Associate Professor Maki Nakai presents "Clothing, Power, and Court Culture in Premodern Japan," examining historical contexts.
- Episode 7 (Release Date: January 6, 2027): Professor Hitomi Yuo will delve into "Translating Japan: Literature, Gender, and the Global Reader," focusing on the nuances of translation and cultural exchange.

Waseda University currently offers English degree programs across six faculties and 15 graduate schools. According to a 2025 survey by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), Waseda welcomes the largest number of international students in Japan. It ranks impressively in the QS World University Rankings by Subject for 2026, placing 61st for Arts & Humanities and 78th for Social Sciences & Management, both within the global top 100 rankings. These accomplishments reinforce Waseda's commitment to fostering global perspectives and local relevance in higher education.

Tune in to the "Rigorous Research, Real Impact" podcast for a deeper understanding of these essential themes shaping modern business practices.

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