It's just another MP3 player. The first Creative models won awards for design and ease of use when MP3 players were first hitting the market. DH bought me one of those at that time. I never thought I would be hooked. Who knew?
I have 2 Zens currently - different models. Both play video, music, store pictures, have calendars, FM radios, alarm functions etc. I love the bookmarks. If you are listening to the podcast you can bookmark a spot to pick up later, or something of interest.
My smallest one is the size of a credit card and maybe 1/2" thick with the silicon skin. It has an SD slot so I can use it to back up my photos while on vacation.