I think different formats have different propensities. Your problems with podcasts appear more related to propensity than inherent format issues - that is, boo

I think different formats have different propensities. Your problems with podcasts appear more related to propensity than inherent format issues - that is, books too can come off as self aggrandizing, fluff and winding, but you have found mode examples that don't do this perhaps? Perhaps one thing inherent to podcasts vs books is that you can simply skip sections and skim past the content you find not worth your time, where podcasts are harder to do this without missing your spot, etc. Podcasts like 99% invisible I find hit the right balance, but again, definitely have more emphasis on interviews than pure factual info compared to books. But I think that's kind of normal, as podcasts do suit discussion and interviews better than a more straight facts approach. Still, I feel the points you've listed, while valid, are not always the case and like most mediums, you can find examples that would suit your style.