Uploaded February 2024 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Thank you for listening to The Following Films Podcast. Today, I’m joined by Dawn Mikkelson, Keri Pickett, and Jennifer Weir, the co-directors and subject of the new documentary film FINDING HER BEAT.
In the midst of a frozen Minnesota winter, a Japanese drum master and a Korean adoptee from North Dakota join forces to assemble the world’s greatest Taiko drummers in a bold effort to claim a cultural spotlight that has historically been reserved only for men. Through grueling rehearsals, Jennifer weaves together their disparate voices and styles as vulnerability, pain, and joys are shared—and we quickly see bonds of friendship form as these talented women navigate through differences in culture, age, language, and performance styles. As the clock ticks toward their first performance, it becomes clear that their story has become much larger than Taiko.
Before our conversation with the team behind FINDING HER BEAT, I would like to thank our sponsor, Bookmans, an independent bookstore that believes in the magic of storytelling and the cinematic arts. To expand your collection of films, music, or books, visit your nearest Bookmans and discover something truly wonderful.
If you haven't already, please follow the Following Films podcast on Spotify to show your support. This will help us continue to bring you in-depth conversations with the talented individuals who shape the world of cinema.
FINDING HER BEAT is currently available on Amazon Prime.
Thank you for listening to The Following Films Podcast. Today, I’m joined by Dawn Mikkelson, Keri Pickett, and Jennifer Weir, the co-directors and subject of the new documentary film FINDING HER BEAT.
In the midst of a frozen Minnesota winter, a Japanese drum master and a Korean adoptee from North Dakota join forces to assemble the world’s greatest Taiko drummers in a bold effort to claim a cultural spotlight that has historically been reserved only for men. Through grueling rehearsals, Jennifer weaves together their disparate voices and styles as vulnerability, pain, and joys are shared—and we quickly see bonds of friendship form as these talented women navigate through differences in culture, age, language, and performance styles. As the clock ticks toward their first performance, it becomes clear that their story has become much larger than Taiko.
Before our conversation with the team behind FINDING HER BEAT, I would like to thank our sponsor, Bookmans, an independent bookstore that believes in the magic of storytelling and the cinematic arts. To expand your collection of films, music, or books, visit your nearest Bookmans and discover something truly wonderful.
If you haven't already, please follow the Following Films podcast on Spotify to show your support. This will help us continue to bring you in-depth conversations with the talented individuals who shape the world of cinema.
FINDING HER BEAT is currently available on Amazon Prime.
