Yes, we have numerous fantastic podcasts in France, from the national radios (ads-free).

The coverage of topics is very good in some areas (non-tech) and so so in tech

You are right, there is a fourth category of public service/taxation.

Maybe all podcasters should learn by the French example, and simply threaten people to give them money, whether they are listeners or not? Threaten them with prison if they don't pay? Joe Rogan could show up at your door and demand that you give him money for his podcast.