The Industry Pulse: Inside the EDM Ohio Networking Night at Bodi
- Rainbow_Rocks
- March 26, 2026
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- #ColumbusOhio, #IndependentJournalism, #LGBTQIA, #RainbowRocks, Bodi, EDM OHio, Juice, LGBTQIA+, Nik Ryan, Serene Dione
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Written by Kyle
LGBTQIA+ Independent Journalist, Content Creator, and Digital Media Producer at RainbowRocks.Space
March 26th, 2026
COLUMBUS, OH — On the night of March 26th, 2026, the historic walls of Bodi on East Main Street vibrated with more than just sub-bass. The 100-year-old building, an architectural gem in Downtown Columbus, hosted EDM Ohio’s Industry Night—a high-energy summit for the movers and shakers of the Midwest electronic scene.
The event was a “packed house” in every sense, drawing a diverse crowd of influencers, media moguls, promoters, and dedicated fans. From the free (and absolutely amazing) food to the top-notch entertainment, the environment was a masterclass in networking. Even the management from Union Café stopped by to show support, giving the “cute” and inclusive venue their stamp of approval.
The Sonic Landscape
The night featured a rotating roster of talent that kept the energy at a fever pitch. The lineup included standout sets from Juice, Nick Ryan, and Flurry, each bringing a unique flavor to the decks.
[Cull/Edit: Insert Event Photography Gallery Here]Visuals: Shots of the 100-year-old interior, the aesthetic crowd, and high-motion captures of the DJs.
The Industry Interviews
We sat down with four key figures from the night to discuss the state of the scene and the importance of inclusivity in Columbus.
1. Juice: The Student-Artist Hybrid
Chase, an Ohio State student and rising DJ, discussed the “balancing act” of managing academics while touring the national circuit. He emphasized his commitment to building a connected EDM network that spans both North and South Ohio.
- Key Quote: “It’s a lot of balance—a lot of late nights—, but I’m just trying to work my balance right now.”
2. Nik Ryan: The Producer-First Performer
Nick Ryan took us through his transition from making hip-hop beats to becoming a powerhouse in the house music scene. He highlighted his focus on fan engagement and his upcoming releases on Blackbox Records and Suns Grove.
- Key Quote: “What separates me—I’m not just a DJ, I’m more of a producer first… I actually try to engage with people when they ask me questions.”
3. Serene Dione: The Voice for Inclusivity
A Columbus native with a Master’s degree, Serene Dione brought a heartfelt perspective on the need for queer and female representation in the booth. She spoke candidly about the impact of House Bill 249 and her passion for the upcoming Breakaway Music Festival.
- Key Quote: “It’s really important right now for EDM Ohio to be there for [the LGBTQIA+ community], diversify them, and really represent them.”
4. Joey: The Architect of the Night
While we reached out to the EDM Ohio organizer for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, Joey was fully immersed in the event’s high-energy demands. His hands-on dedication was evident in every detail, from the sound management to the guest experience. Rainbow Rocks looks forward to a deeper dive with him in the near future.
The Verdict
Overall, this was a massive success for Joey and the EDM Ohio team. They have solidified their status as one of the premier EDM groups in Columbus, catering to a demographic ranging from college students to seasoned professionals. The night was a testament to the “positivity only” vibe that defines the inclusive Columbus music community.
Don’t miss the next one: Check out EDM Ohio on March 28, 2026, at 9:00 PM at The Cave and Bodi for the official Breakaway Pre-Party. If the Industry Night was any indication, the pre-party is going to be legendary.
Juice Interview (Exclusive)
Written by Kyle / Rainbow Rocks: LGBTQIA+ independent journalist, social media creator, and digital producer — March 26th, 2026.
The Balancing Act: A Night at Bodega with Chase
COLUMBUS, OH — Amidst the steady pulse of Downtown Columbus, Ohio, the neon-lit interior of Bodi on East Main St served as the backdrop for a deep dive into the evolving Ohio Electronic Scene. On the night of March 26th, I caught up with Juice, a Local EDM Artist who is currently bridging the gap between the Lecture Halls of Ohio State and the strobe lights of the Ohio EDM Scene and beyond.
From Family Gear to Festival Tiers
Juice’s journey into the booth started closer to home than most. “I actually just started through my dad’s equipment,” he shared. What began as a hobby spinning at High School house parties quickly transformed when he moved to Columbus, Ohio, for College. By immersing himself in the Local Scene, Juice turned a passion into a professional pursuit, eventually catching the eye of the powerhouses at EDM Ohio.
“I reached out to a guy I saw filming events for EDM Ohio. I told him I wanted to play one of the shows, and everything from there went uphill,” Juice recalled. Since that initial spark, he has left his mark on Venues like Gables and Boredom, proving that initiative is the strongest currency in the Industry.
The Student-Artist Hybrid
For many, the life of a DJ and a student at The Ohio State University would be a recipe for burnout. For Juice, it’s a calculated rhythm.
“It’s a lot of balance—a lot of late nights—balancing between academics and DJing. But I’ve been able to figure it out… I’m just trying to work my balance right now.”
A Vision for an Inclusive Ohio
When asked about the scene’s inclusivity, Juice didn’t hesitate to highlight the effort required to keep the community growing and welcoming. Whether playing in Ohio or across the country, his mission is to build a scene everyone can enjoy.
“It’s been a lot of hard work,” he admitted. “We’re really trying to build it up and expand through Ohio and the surrounding areas.” By focusing on both production and live performance, DJ Juice is helping to create a cohesive network that ensures Ohio remains a destination for electronic music lovers of all backgrounds.
What’s Next?
As the weather warms up, Juice eyes are set on the studio and the stage. When asked what he’s looking forward to most this summer, his answer was simple: “Probably just producing and playing more shows.”
In a city that is rapidly becoming a Midwest hub for the arts, artists like Juice are the ones keeping the momentum moving forward—one beat at a time.
“Reporting for Rainbow Rocks, This is Kyle—see you at the next show!”
Nik Ryan Interview (Exclusive)
Written by Kyle / Rainbow Rocks: LGBTQIA+ Independent Journalist, Social Media Creator, and Digital Producer — March 26th, 2026.
From Hip-Hop Beats to House Anthems: A Night with Nick Ryan
COLUMBUS, OH — On the night of March 26th, 2026, the energy at Bodi on East Main Street in Downtown Columbus, Ohio, was electric. The occasion was EDM Industry Night, a gathering of the minds and talents shaping the future of Ohio’s electronic Landscape. Amidst the thumping bass and neon lights, I sat down with Nick Ryan, a Producer and Performer whose rapid ascent is proof that the next generation of house music is already here.
The Producer First Mentality
Nick Ryan’s journey didn’t start behind the decks, but rather in the studio. “Originally, I started making Hip-Hop Beats when I was a little bit younger,” Nick explained. Over the last few years, that foundation shifted toward House Music. A few strategic Reels later, a manager took notice, and the rest is history.
Unlike many who jump straight into DJing, Nick prides himself on his technical roots. “What separates me—I’m not just a DJ, I’m more of a producer first,” he noted. “I don’t go around saying I’m the best producer, but I am one of the better stage performers.” That dedication is paying off, with upcoming releases slated for Spotify through labels.
Fitness, Fairs, and Fandoms
When he isn’t commanding a stage, Nick’s life looks a lot like his audience’s. A College Student who balances tracks with textbooks, he is a regular at the gym and a self-proclaimed “roller coaster nerd.”
Our conversation naturally drifted to the recent Arnold Sports Festival here in Columbus—a massive event we both experienced. “Young LA was nuts,” I recalled, and Nick agreed. “It was super fun. I actually made a vlog about it.” For Nick, the crossover between the fitness community and the EDM scene is seamless, as both thrive on high energy and dedicated discipline.
Building a Platform for the New Generation
A recurring theme of the night was the scene’s accessibility. The crowd at Bodi was packed with College Students, a demographic Nick is eager to guide.
“The problem is they just don’t know where to go. They really like the music, but they don’t know where to go. So, we’re trying to give a platform with EDM Ohio… so they know where to go and visit the best bars in Columbus.”
Nick’s approach to growth is rooted in radical kindness—a departure from the “gatekeeper” attitude sometimes found in the industry. “I intend to grow it by showcasing my music and engaging with the crowd and my fans as much as possible,” he said, emphasizing that, unlike some “bigger guys” in the industry, he makes it a point to actually talk to the people who support his art.
A Packed Summer Ahead
The momentum isn’t slowing down. With the scene growing faster than even he anticipated, Nick has a grueling but exciting schedule ahead. “I have a show in Akron, a show in Cleveland, and then like three other EDM Ohio shows,” he shared. The next few months are set to be a whirlwind of performances across the state.
As the interview concluded, it was clear that Nick Ryan isn’t just riding the wave of the EDM explosion—he’s helping to direct it.
Serene Dione Interview (Exclusive)
Written by Kyle / Rainbow Rocks: LGBTQIA+ independent journalist, social media creator, and digital producer — March 26th, 2026.
A Voice for the Underground: Serene Dione on Community, Inclusivity, and the Future of Ohio EDM
COLUMBUS, OH — The atmosphere at Bodi on East Main Street was thick with more than just bass on the night of March 26th, 2026. It was a night of reflection for the local scene. Amidst the “EDM Industry Night” festivities, I sat down with Serene Dione, a Columbus native, academic, and promoter who is rapidly becoming one of the most vital voices for representation in the Midwest electronic circuit.
Fresh off a set that exceeded all expectations for an industry-run event, Serene opened up about her journey from Upper Arlington to the front lines of the Ohio rave scene.
The Journey Home
Serene’s path to the decks wasn’t linear. “I was born and raised in Columbus,” she told Rainbow Rocks. “I went to Ohio University for my undergrad and Master’s degree—a lot of people don’t know that about me.” After a stint living in Boston, she returned to her roots in 2021, just as the city’s nightlife was beginning to reinvent itself. By 2023, she was already a force in the city, promoting fashion shows and raves, eventually becoming a staple in the EDM Ohio family.
Navigating the “Noise”
Even a successful night has its hurdles. The event faced challenges from a local neighbor regarding sound levels, a situation Serene handled with professional grace. “The woman felt justified, even though we tried to accommodate to make it easier for her,” Serene explained. Despite the team’s efforts to balance the “bumping” music with neighborhood peace, she noted that sometimes, “all we could do was try to accommodate.”
Representation on the Main Stage
As a bisexual woman in a historically male-dominated industry, Serene doesn’t take her platform lightly. For her, the EDM scene is a beautiful, “crazy” world, but one that still requires significant work to truly reflect its fans.
“I am very based around the LGBTQ as a bisexual woman. I love working with the LGBTQIA+ community in the EDM Ohio scene and I respect Columbus as a queer inclusive city… but it’s really important right now to be there for them, diversify them, and really represent them.”
The Fight Against HB 249
Serene was vocal about the political pressures currently facing the community, specifically calling out House Bill 249. She didn’t mince words, labeling it a “piece of shit bill” that threatens the safety and visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“There are not enough women in the EDM industry or LGBTQIA+ EDM artists as there should be,” she lamented. However, she sees a glimmer of hope in the leadership of the local scene, noting that Joey at EDM Ohio is “working so hard to bridge that gap.”
Looking Ahead: Breakaway Music Festival 2026
Despite the political and social hurdles, Serene’s passion for music remains the driving force. As we looked toward the summer, one event stood out above the rest: the Breakaway Music Festival in Columbus, specifically the fan-favorite Silent Disco.
For Serene, these events aren’t just parties—they are opportunities to show the world the true diversity of the queer community within the electronic music industry.
