I agree with the article's points about active learning and retention. I also agree that certain speed multipliers can become aspirational due to social media FOMO. However, most audio is listened to for entertainment or to pick out certain topics or keywords for closer listening. Tuning the speed helps with both of those goals. Depending on the listener, entertainment might be set at 1-1.5x with skipped silences. Scanning ranges higher, up to the cited 3x in some players.