AIP-492: ApeCoin Gets a LOUDER Voice: The podcastization of the ApeCoin Ecosystem (Resubmission)

Disclaimer: Due to the recent approval of AIP-436, all AIPs requesting an allocation denominated over US$250,000 will require a super majority approval of 69% of the total number of votes cast. The Foundation has already begun coordinating to develop our new Snapshot strategy to automate these new decision making guidelines, however, we will ensure compliance with this guideline manually in the interim.

This AIP falls above that threshold and will require 69% of votes to be approved.

Proposal Description

Alright folks, this is our rebooted AIP-410 ApeCoin Goes to Hollywood —now called:

ApeCoin Gets a LOUDER Voice: The podcastization of the ApeCoin Ecosystem.

It’s a multi-layered AIP to give the ApeCoin ecosystem a voice that reaches the world in multiple languages, improve internal DAO communication, involve ApeCoin holders, help AIP Authors, MBAs, MOCA and artists, use the DAO as a talent marketplace and bring normies and Web3 enthusiasts to ApeChain.

We want to leverage our 19 years in podcasting and 6 years in Web3.

• Why podcasts? Because podcasts are the most direct, natural, and cost-effective way to communicate. That’s why listeners are growing worldwide nonstop.

• Why Web3? Because we are true believers since 2018, when we even tried to shake up how presidential elections are held in Mexico (and the world) using Blockchain with great results and media coverage (you can read more in Dany Saadia’s bio); and we’ve come a long way since then. We even snatched up ApeCoin as soon as it was released and minted 2 BAYC (1382 and 1383).

So this is why we are resubmitting this AIP with the firm belief we are uniquely qualified to navigate this project to success. Let’s dive:

First off, we’re talking about real podcasts, like the ones we've been producing since 2005. You can listen to an example here. This means: it’s not about just giving mics to a couple of folks or recording Zoom calls. Real podcasts have a story, a script, a production, and they truly harness the power of voice. Since the dawn of time, humans have been wired to respond to voice when it comes with the right words, the right tone, and even the right musicality. Also, podcasts are notably less expensive to produce than video. We’re going to leverage all this to benefit the ApeCoin DAO—the entire ApeCoin ecosystem and all its members.

Down to business: we’ll tackle the internal and external communication issues in the DAO with podcasts to be distributed on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, et.al. Out of our own experience, the learning we got from the different Spaces and Discourse comments about the DAO and how you can really make a difference is nothing short of incredible, and massively expands what Ape_U does. However, this experience has really driven home the need to make these discussions accessible to everyone, on-demand, in their own time and time-zone. This is why we are pushing this AIP as follows:

1. Podcastizing: edit and post-produce all ApeCoin related Spaces like Apecomms, BOTB, Bodega, Sandbox, Meet at the Clubhouse, Mocaverse and all other relevant Spaces so no one has to hang around, banana to the ear, at crazy hours. (Example: July 6th BOTB Space).

2. We will also produce and post-produce a weekly chat-show podcast about ApeCoin and ApeChain news (live AIPs, ApeChain and DAO updates, testnests, controversies, F1, etc) with key players as guests, all hosted by two DAO members (to be chosen).

3. For all willing ApeCoin DAO AIP Authors, we’re gonna podcastize your AIP drafts, just like we are doing with this AIP (listen to it here), and we recently did with all Special Council candidates (Listen here). This will be done in English, our common language.

4. For all willing MBAs and BAYC & MOCA artists we will produce a 20- to 30-minute podcast about their project, because we know there is an entrepreneurial and enlightening story behind every MBA and artist that deserves to be told and heard.

   • Also, we will produce a 30-second audio ad for all willing MBAs and MOCA artists to promote their product or services that will be baked-in on all podcasts published by this AIP for free. (As long as they follow DAOs guidelines).

5. Then, to increase and amplify ApeCoin’s visibility in the normie world, we will write, produce, post-produce and distribute to all major platforms, TWO “ApeCoin Originals” in three key languages for global distribution: English, Spanish, and French.

   • Why in English? For obvious reasons: it’s the current global lingua franca and where the real monetization market for podcasts lies (the US).

   • Why in Spanish? Because there are over 500 million native speakers across 21 countries on 3 continents, and it’s largely an untapped market for ApeCoin.

   • And in French? Well, add another 27 countries with about 75 million natives and 200 million more who speak it as an official language, nearly as neglected.

We’re talking about 700 million potential listeners, plus English worldwide speakers, who would be hearing “This is an ApeCoin Original” and “Powered by ApeCoin” for the first time and many many more times.

What are the two “ApeCoin Originals”?

1. A flagship podcast: a documentary on the saga of Yuga and BAYC, Cryptopunks, ApeCoin, and Animoca Brands. Why? To follow the trend of those podcasts that jumped to VOD platforms (like WeCrashed, Gaslit, The Dropout, etc.) These narratives not only captured the attention of mainstream audiences but also turned complex business sagas into cultural phenomena that captivates millions.

   • This flagship podcast aims to do something similar with the story and synergies between Yuga, Animoca Brands, The Sandbox, ApeCoin, all the way to ApeChain. We want to introduce the general public to the universe of Web3 and our DAOs, demystifying it with an accessible and attractive narrative about how these technologies work and their impact on various aspects of culture and the economy.

   • And above all, we want to control the narrative. Controlling the narrative is essential to educate and capture the attention of a skeptical or simply unknowledgeable audiences about what blockchain and the NFT market really involves. We are not just looking to tell a story, but also to establish a clear frame of reference so that the audience understands and appreciates the complexity and beauty of what we are doing. It’s about captivating both who are already believers in Web3 and the normies who still do not know or remain reluctantly on the sidelines. [FOR A SHORT SYNOPSIS CLICK HERE.]

NOTE REGARDING DOCUMENTARY At this stage of our project, we have not yet contacted these entities to confirm >their participation. However, we want to emphasize our extensive experience in >producing high-quality podcast documentaries that meet rigorous legal and >ethical standards.

Notably, we recently completed a documentary for Amazon Audible, a company >renowned for its meticulous approach to content production and thorough >vetting process. Our documentary focused on the murders of two Monarch >Butterfly Mexican activists (you can listen on Audible here), a sensitive and >complex topic that required careful handling of legal and ethical considerations. >This project not only showcased our ability to navigate challenging subject >matter but also demonstrated our commitment to maintaining high standards of >journalistic integrity and respect for all parties involved. The impact of our work >is further evidenced by the fact that this subject also became a Netflix >documentary.

This experience has equipped us with a deep understanding of the implications >and responsibilities involved in documentary podcasting, particularly when >dealing with sensitive subjects and multiple stakeholders. We’ve sharpened our >skills in thorough research, fact-checking, and presenting complex narratives in >a compelling yet responsible manner.

Building on this experience, our plan moving forward is as follows:

• Outreach: We will initiate contact with representatives from all mentioned >entities to introduce our project and invite their participation. • Consent and Cooperation: We aim to secure their willingness to cooperate and >will document any agreements reached. We’ll provide proof of consent once >obtained.

• Alternative Approach: If direct participation isn’t secured, we’ll proceed using >publicly available information, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements >and controlling the narrative.

• Legal Compliance: Drawing from our experience with Amazon Audible, we’re >well-versed in navigating legal considerations. We consult often with legal >professionals to ensure adherence to all relevant laws and regulations.

• Accuracy and Fairness: We’re committed to presenting accurate information, >seeking expert opinions and alternative sources to maintain the documentary’s >integrity.

We know that this project’s success would be immensely enhanced by the >cooperation of these key players in the crypto space and our track record with >Amazon Audible demonstrates our ability to produce content that meets the >highest standards of accuracy and legal compliance.

We will keep you updated on our progress in securing participation and consent >from these entities as we move forward.

As a side note, while we haven’t yet contacted the entities mentioned to confirm >their participation in the documentary, we believe it would be in our best >interest to grant permission and collaborate together. Here’s why:

Exposure and Promotion: This documentary represents a valuable opportunity >for the entities to showcase their projects, innovations, and impact on the >crypto space to a wider audience.

Narrative Control: By participating, these organizations can ensure their stories >are told accurately and from their perspective, rather than relying solely on >third-party interpretations.

Community Engagement: Involvement in this project demonstrates a >commitment to transparency and community engagement, which is crucial for >the Ecosystem and the Web3 space.

Historical Record: This documentary will likely serve as an important historical >record of the early days of NFTs and crypto-based communities. Participation >ensures these entities have a voice in shaping that narrative.

Given these factors, we believe it would be unwise for these entities not to >grant permission and participate in this documentary. Their involvement would >not only enrich the content but also align with the principles of openness and >collaboration that are fundamental to the crypto and NFT communities.

We are prepared to work closely with all parties to address any concerns and >ensure their interests are protected throughout the documentary-making >process. Our goal is to create a balanced, informative, and engaging piece that >serves the interests of the participants, the ApeCoin ecosystem, and above all, >the broader audience interested in this revolutionary technology.

2. Speaking of making a strong entry into the normie world, “The Frightorama Experiment” is the second ApeCoin Original, a horror/psychological thriller aiming to tap the existing creative talent market within the ApeCoin, MOCA, and Sandbox DAOs — from screenwriters to directors, musicians, voice actors, recording studios, equipment rental companies, etc., through a contest. We’re not just looking to produce high-quality and easily gamifiable content that embeds “This is an ApeCoin Original” and “Powered by ApeCoin” into millions of downloads, but also to create the first DAOs collaborative production, involve all content creator members of the DAOs and gain revenue.

   • To do so, we will pick scripts via a contest run in the DAO, which will be then produced with as much talent from the DAOs as possible. This contest is not just a platform to showcase the best and most original works, but a demonstration of how transparent, fair and participative all this can be. [FOR FURTHER DETAILS ABOUT “The Frightorama Experiment”, CLICK HERE.]

We’re sure these 2 ApeCoin Originals can make a huge hit and reach at least a million downloads. Why?

1. Because we are confident that a well-produced and researched Web3 documentary, let alone “The Frightorama Experiment”, are attractive to the wider English, Spanish and French audiences in the most popular genres:

2. Because we have a lot of experience in the podcasting industry, IPs, data and platforms, which translates into massive know-how to reach audiences, and

3. Because we will allocate a substantial budget for marketing and distribution to effectively promote all the necessary podcasts under this AIP.

Let’s talk about the exciting potential of the ApeCoin Originals. These projects can easily expand into TV series, films, video games, and merchandising, and also tap into the massive $4 billion dollars worldwide podcast ad-revenue market ($2 billion in the US alone!).

And we propose a revenue structure that prioritizes the ApeCoin’s Treasury recoupment as follows:

1. Treasury Recoupment Phase: 100% of gross revenue from ad-monetization of podcasts and related content will be directed back to the Treasury until the full overall cost of this AIP is recouped.

2. Operational Sustainability Phase: After complete recoupment, we’ll retain 100% of subsequent revenue to ensure long-term AIP sustainability.

Our strategy is designed to accelerate Treasury recoupment, secure funding for ongoing operations in subsequent years, and establish a strong position for ApeCoin in the evolving media and entertainment landscape.

In any case, there will always be complete transparency. Downloads and revenue will be visible to all members of the DAO, as well as anything else the community considers necessary to ensure accountability.

Additionally, to sweeten this AIP even more (remember: multilayered), we also plan to tokenize these IPs and host all our podcasts on the ApeChain in order to coordinate and collaborate with Horizen Labs and/or coders (and Banana Bill) to develop a system that automatically generates RSS feeds from blockchain-hosted podcast content for distribution to major platforms (Spotify or Apple Podcasts) because, to our knowledge, this hasn’t been implemented in Web3.

This AIP is budgeted for 759 episodes (or one year’s podcasts as described in the budget section), and includes —this is key again — marketing and promotion. We’re not just creating killer podcasts; we’re making sure they get the spotlight they need. Creating standout content is only half the game. The other half is putting it in front of the right people. We’re all about maxing out our reach and visibility to draw in a wide and varied audiences in the English, Spanish and French speaking world. At the end of the day, it’s about making each episode not just entertaining or informative, but a real powerhouse that drives ApeCoin adoption, helping to carve out a unique and well-recognized spot for it in the global scene.

We expect income from all these projects to maintain and expand the operation in the future.

Oh, by the way: thanks to DIXO’s 19 years of experience in podcasting and 6 years in Web3, we’re a household name across Latin America and Spain. As soon as this AIP kicks off, we’ll instantly add all podcasts under this AIP to the DIXO Network, which just signed a distribution deal with Pitaya—one of the top distribution and monetization podcast networks in the US. Plus, this will give DIXO and ApeCoin access to free PR in both specialized and mainstream media.

TL;DR: a) 313 Spaces podcastized; b) 260 AIP Drafts podcastized; c) 52 MBAs + MOCA + Sandbox artists podcasts; d) 52 $APE Ecosystem podcasts; e) 52 × 30”-audio ads for MBA + MOCA artists; f) 1 Yuga and Animoca Brands DOCUMENTARY podcast (6 episodes) in English, Spanish and French; g) 1 DAO community-driven gamifiable horror/psychological thriller podcast in English, Spanish and French; h) Grand total: 759 “Powered by ApeCoin” podcasts available on all audio platforms (Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube…) i) …thus entering a largely untapped market of 700 million Spanish and French speakers; j) 100% of initial revenue from ALL ad-monetization, royalties, derivatives, ancillary income, and IP licenses under this AIP goes back to the DAO’s treasury UNTIL the overall costs of this AIP are recouped. k) Once the DAO’s Treasury has fully recouped its initial investment, all subsequent revenue will be reinvested to ensure the long-term self-sustainability of this AIP. This will allow us to continue promoting ApeCoin globally without requiring additional funding from the DAO… l) … while biting our nails to start the next decentralized content platform with Horizen Labs in ApeChain.

Please let’s do ourselves a favor: let’s NOT miss this opportunity. It’s good for the DAOs, $ApeCoin, BAYC, MAYC, MBAs, MOCA, Sandbox, and, above all, ApeChain.

BENEFIT TO APECOIN ECOSYSTEM

1. Marketing and Communications

• 2 different podcasts:

  1. Daily (MON-SAT) Podcastization of all relevant Spaces (ENG)

  • Space Podcastization means downloading the Space, editing internet glitches, pauses, eliminating “mmm, ahhh, errrrs”, editing content (if necessary), improving sound of each speaker, breaking the 2-3-4 hours Space into different episodes depending on the host's outline, and final mixing.

  2. Weekly ApeCoin + ApeChain news podcast hosted by DAO members (ENG)
  • Live AIPs, follow-up on approved AIPs and bills (Banana), F1, ApeChain updates…

2. AIP Draft Authors

• 1 podcast
  • Podcastization of their AIPs drafts (ENG)
    • AIP Draft Podcastization means either a post-produced reading of AIP Abstract by AIP Author(s) or a one-on-one interview with AIP Author(s).

3. To Attract Worldwide Normies to the ApeCoin Worldwide Ecosystem

• 2 different podcasts: “An ApeCoin Original” in English, Spanish, and French
  1. Flagship podcast documentary (BAYC + Cryptopunks + ApeCoin + Moca)
  2. Horror/psychological thriller chosen through a contest in the DAO.
• Untapped and abandoned 700M Spanish and French speaking world
• Millions of downloads.

4. MBAs, MOCAs and Artists

• 1 podcast
  • Success (and failure) stories.
• Free 30-second audio ads baked-in ALL podcasts approved by this AIP.

5. Members of ApeCoin DAO

• Monetization paid in $ApeCoin to screenwriters, directors, producers, hosts, voice-overs, studio rentals, graphic designers, etc. for “The Frightorama Experiment” podcast production under this AIP.
• Access to DIXO’s 19-year expertise in podcasting (podcast pre-production, production, post-production, distribution) either for free or at reduced prices (depending on tasks).

6. Benefits for ApeChain

• Hosting and distribution of audio content.

7. Benefits for the DAO Treasury

• 100% of initial revenue from ALL ad-monetization, royalties, derivatives, ancillary income, and IP licenses under this AIP goes back to the DAO’s treasury UNTIL the overall costs of this AIP are recouped.

OVERALL COST:

Total amount requested from the ApeCoin Ecosystem Fund = $999,999.18 USD

As you will see, the total budget is slightly over 1 million USD ($1,009,100), but we didn’t want to break the psychological barrier of one million, so we decided to ask for less than one million and absorb that small difference. Broken down as follows:

a) 313 Spaces podcasts × $400/ea. = $125,200 (including sound edition, postproduction and audiograms);

b) 260 AIP Drafts podcasts × $1,400/ea. = $364,000 (including sound edition, sound design, dialogue edition, postproduction and audiograms);

c) 52 MBAs + MOCA + Sandbox artists podcasts × $2,050/ea. = $106,600 (including sound edition, sound design, dialogue edition, postproduction, audiograms and marketing outreach);

d) 52 $APE Ecosystem podcasts × $2,400/ea. = $124,800 (including sound edition, cast/host, sound design, dialogue edition, postproduction, audiograms and marketing outreach);

e) 52 × 30”-audio ads for MBA + MOCA artists × $600/ea. = $31,200 (including sound edition and postproduction);

f) Yuga & Animoca Brands Documentary podcast (6 episodes × 3 languages): $153,800 (including scriptwriting, trilingual production and translations, production coordination, fact-checking, cast/talent drawn from the DAO if possible, recording studio & operators, sound design and edition, dialogue edition, audiograms, and marketing outreach);

g) “The Frightorama Experiment” (4 episodes × 3 languages): $103,500 (including scriptwriting, scripts contest, production coordination, cast/talent drawn from the DAO where possible, recording studio & operators, sound design and edition, dialogue edition, audiograms, and marketing outreach);

In fact, throughout this entire project, all of DIXO’s quotes are at cost price because we believe in ApeCoin, because we believe in this AIP and because we are going to show that we apes are much more than a crypto or an NFT: we are a real community that can be sustained by the best ethos behind Web3 and will flow over ApeChain to incorporate the whole world.

For an itemized budget for each podcast above, please see following PDFs:

a) 313 Spaces podcasts:

b) 260 AIP Drafts podcasts:

c) 52 MBAs + MOCA + Sandbox artists podcasts:

d) 52 $APE and ApeChain Ecosystem podcasts:

e) 52 × 30”-audio ads for MBA + MOCA artists:

f) Yuga & Animoca Brands Documentary podcast:

g) “The Frightorama Experiment”:

Disclaimer: Due to the recent approval of AIP-436, all AIPs requesting an allocation denominated over US$250,000 will require a super majority approval of 69% of the total number of votes cast. The Foundation has already begun coordinating to develop our new Snapshot strategy to automate these new decision making guidelines, however, we will ensure compliance with this guideline manually in the interim.

This AIP falls above that threshold and will require 69% of votes to be approved.

PROPOSAL

Link to the full proposal: (https://forum.apecoin.com/t/aip-492-apecoin-gets-a-louder-voice-the-podcastization-of-the-apecoin-ecosystem-resubmission/24994)

The AIP implementation is administered by the Ape Foundation. Implementation may be immaterially or materially altered to optimise for security, usability, to protect APE holders, and otherwise to effect the intent of the AIP. Any material deviations from an AIP, as initially approved, will be disclosed to the APE holder community.