The Intersection of Acid House and Fetish: How Rubber Ron Transformed Clubbing

Sarah interviews Rubber Ron, a prominent figure in the London club scene known for founding the fetish dance club Submission in 1989. Ron shares his journey from the late 80s, detailing how he merged the acid house and fetish scenes to create a unique clubbing experience that attracted a diverse crowd. He reflects on the evolution of club culture, the impact of technology, and the changing dynamics of consent and self-expression within the fetish community. Ron also discusses the influence of iconic New York clubs and the challenges faced by today's nightlife, including the loss of the student market and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for individuals to explore their identities and desires, while also addressing the complexities of modern social interactions and the need for mutual respect in club environments. Key Takeaways Origin of the Name "Rubber Ron": The nickname "Rubber Ron" originated in the late 1980s when the individual expressed interest in starting a rubber fetish club, which led to a playful title given by Nicky Holloway. Creation of Club Submission: In 1989, the individual founded Club Submission, a fetish dance club that merged elements of the acid house scene with the fetish community, attracting notable DJs and growing significantly in attendance over time. Influence of New York Clubs: Experiences in New York's vibrant club scene during the mid-80s, particularly clubs like Area and Palladium, heavily influenced the design and atmosphere of Club Submission, emphasizing immersive and transformative experiences. Evolution of Club Culture: The podcast discusses how club culture has changed over the years, particularly post-COVID, with a decline in student attendance and a shift in the types of venues that thrive, moving from smaller clubs to larger super clubs and festivals. Consent and Safety in the Fetish Scene: The conversation highlights the importance of consent and safety in the fetish community, noting that while there was once a strong culture of respect and understanding, the introduction of new participants has led to stricter regulations and a need for clear communication about boundaries. Social Links https://www.tiktok.com/@provocateurspodcast https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPmCQvMWLaLTayKshPyGOEg About The Host Sarah Moxom is the ultimate powerhouse—an accomplished serial entrepreneur, seasoned investor, and master of navigating the human connection. At just nineteen, she founded her first company, a thriving temporary staffing agency, which she has successfully led for over two decades. With a remarkable ability to blend business acumen with emotional intelligence, Sarah is passionate about exploring the intricate interplay of entrepreneurship, relationship dynamics, people skills, and leadership. Her wealth of experience and sharp insights into human behaviour make her a compelling guide through the challenges of life and business. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills, build stronger relationships, or take your ventures to the next level, Sarah is here to inspire and empower you every step of the way. https://sarahmoxom.co.uk/ This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/