With Apple discontinuing iPods, what are the alternatives?

Marigold has a broken iPod and would like to hear about alternative MP3 players, mainly for listening to podcasts and Audible audio books

I was appalled to read that Apple is abandoning iPods. I have a seventh-generation iPod that has just packed it in, but I hesitate to spend money on repairs if it is about to go obsolete. Meanwhile, I am happily using my 2008 model, which lacks a radio but is fine otherwise. The grandson declares that this is the moment to get a "proper" phone that will do everything, but I am refusing to submit to blackmail and have no wish to consult the internet at every opportunity.

I am addicted to podcasts and books from Audible, and don't often play music. Would an MP3 player from another maker still tie up with iTunes and Audible? Could I get one with a radio, preferably DAB? Marigold

Apple is abandoning its traditional iPods because most people with smartphones now use them for everything. However, many current smartphones - including Apple's - don't have FM, and none has a DAB radio.