Infotainers, Mediators, or Watchdogs? Mapping the Field of News Podcasters and Their Role Conceptions in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland

News podcasters, predominantly male, middle-aged, and academically educated without journalistic experience, shape mass media discourse, a study across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland reveals. They emphasize education, information, and entertainment, aligning closely with their audiences’ preferences. Meanwhile, monetization strategies remain underutilized. This research illuminates news podcasters’ unique roles and values in the evolving media landscape.