PODCAST WITH IDEAL INDONESIAN LEADER: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF PODCAST AS A CHANNEL FOR FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

Abstract

This article critically analyzes the role of podcasts as a channel for freedom of expression in shaping the discourse of the ideal Indonesian leader thru Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) based on Fairclough's model. By examining concrete cases such as KPU RI Episode 9: Ideal Leaders in the Eyes of Students (a platform for young formal and intellectual stakeholders), Podcast: Jokowi's Rants and Rocky Gerung's Ideal State Leader Version (comparing official narratives vs. sharp criticism), Episode 31: Putu Yoga: KMHDI Chairman - Ideal Political Party? (non-governmental organization perspective), as well as Applying Leadership Science from Mr. Jonan. Leaders Must Be Visible. The Leader Must Be Seen (visible leadership implementation): Research reveals how narrative framing, satirical humor, ideological rhetoric, and contrasting comparisons are used to construct an ideal leadership image while simultaneously challenging power. The findings indicate that podcasts expand the deliberative space thru long-form dialog and social media integration, enabling social criticism as a control mechanism. For example, discussions by the General Election Commission of the Republic of Indonesia (KPU RI) sparked public debate about election integrity, while Rocky Gerung's criticism of Jokowi's "interference" went viral on X and mobilized young opinion. However, this freedom is limited by elite dominance (the majority of hosts are Jakarta-centric), commercialization (sponsors influence framing), algorithmic polarization, and legal repression (the ITE Law threatens independent hosts). The Jonan case underscores the importance of visible and accountable leadership, while Putu Yoga expands the discourse to an ideal Hindu-based political party and democracy. The article concludes that podcasts are an ambivalent channel for freedom of expression: empowering young voices, activists, and intellectuals while also being vulnerable to power manipulation. Its effectiveness depends on digital literacy, editorial independence, and regulatory reform for podcasts to truly become a platform for the people, featuring ideal Indonesian leaders who are ethical, inclusive, and responsive.