Fortunately, you don’t have to use Apple’s Podcasts app if you don’t like it. I got ticked off about Podcasts (for a different reason) a few months ago and started this discussion to look for an alternative app:
I ultimately settled on the following two apps:
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On my Mac desktop, I’m using Mimir: https://mimirpodcasts.app/
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On iOS (an iPod Touch), I’m using PocketCasts: https://www.pocketcasts.com/
Other people have recommended other apps. I recommend you read through the entire thread and try out anything that looks interesting.