Whooshkaa & RØDE offer free podcast tech plus $2m in equipment for schools

Australian podcasting company Whooshkaa is showing its philanthropic side, by releasing its new technology free to schools worldwide.

The move comes after the World Health Organisation released recent advice around the importance of continuity of learning, as the globe is gripped by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Whooshka’s new technology enables businesses, schools and groups to broadcast audio to specified listeners, and uses any existing podcasting app on any smartphone (with audio exclusively available to those granted access by the podcaster).

“We created this as an internal communications tool to inform and engage employees – particularly those working remotely,” said Rob Lowenthal, founder & CEO of Whooshkaa.

“But we can see it has enormous potential to support students and schools through this period of global upheaval.”

“The WHO says academic podcasts are a key plank in continuity of learning plans,” Lowenthal added.

“With this in mind, Whooshkaa will set up free Professional private podcast packages for schools from kindergarten to year.12, across Australia and right around the world.”

The news comes after RØDE Microphones announced a recent donation of $2m worth of podcasting equipment for public high schools in NSW, Australia.

Now, Whooshkaa and RØDE have joined forces, and will provide free private podcast packages to help all schools who take up the free tech distribute their content to students.

The applications are significant for schools who take up the offer, with the RØDECaster Pro Podcast Production Studio available in tandem with Whooshkaa tech to help teachers deliver entire lessons, allocate homework, explain course material or give daily updates to parents, all via podcast.

“You don’t have to be an audio expert to use it, and in the case of a school closure it’s an ideal way to give students access to educational content,” said RØDE founder and chairman Peter Freeman AM.

Whooshkaa’s Lowenthal said the tech was originally developed for remote workforces, with applications including the ability send instant or daily audio updates to essential workers in fast-changing situations.

“Our business is podcasting. We could see that leaders in business, research and many other professions wanted a way to update, engage and unite their teams – whether they’re at a city desk,
driving across a desert or in an airport lounge.

“This is streamlined and secure. A podcast can be recorded on your phone and uploaded at the press of a button.

“It then appears in the podcast library of your approved team members. If they leave your organisation or professional group, access disappears.

Recent advice from leading epidemiologists such as the Harvard Center for Disease Dynamics’ William Hanage, is that “everyone who can work from home should work from home.”

Whooshkaa aims to make secure podcasts a key to maximise productivity and drive business continuity at this trying time.

Head here to apply for a free podcast hosting account, or head here for more information about Whooshkaa for Education.