Podcast
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries
It's "The West Wing" meets "Nancy Drew" - a podcast for little girls and political junkies. Legend says whoever sees the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill is cursed. Fina Mendoza, the 10-year old daughter of a congressman, just saw it. Can she save her family from “cat”astrophe? These are the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. www.finamendozamysteries.com
Episodes
Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza
Jun 08 2023
It's the return of Fina Mendoza! To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come. And as a special thank you to listeners of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, Chesapeake Press is offering a 20% discount on the paperback. Just go to IPGBook.com and enter the promo code Fina2023 at checkout. Here's the link.
Coming This Summer: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza
Jun 01 2023
It's the return of Fina Mendoza! To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come. And as a special thank you to listeners of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, Chesapeake Press is offering a 20% discount on the paperback. Just go to IPGBook.com and enter the promo code Fina2023 at checkout. Here's the link.
The State of the Union Address 2023
Jan 30 2023
On Tuesday night, February 7th, members of Congress from the House and Senate will hear a speech from President Biden about the State of the Union. Our Founding Fathers thought the annual speech to Congress was so important, they put it in the Constitution. But what IS the State of the Union address? And what's it like to be inside the U.S. Capitol, sitting in the House Gallery, above the lawmakers and Supreme Court Justices and the cabinet? In this special bonus episode of The Fina Mendoza Mys...more
Losing is Democratic: Explaining January 6th to Kids
Jan 05 2023
How do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special Fina Mendoza Mysteries episode is designed to help parents and teachers talk to young people about the attack on the U.S. Capitol two years ago and what larger lessons can be learned. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here. There is a NEW e-book version of Losing is Democratic available for 99 cents on Amazon. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a zoom classroom, meeting remotely because of the ...more
A Fina Mendoza Mysteries Christmas
Dec 13 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. It's Christmas in Washington, a time to remember family traditions and Capitol Hill traditions. Find out more about the cast at the website. Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Pres...more
Thanksgiving 2022
Nov 15 2022
We celebrate Thanksgiving with Fina and the Mendoza family as they leave Washington to visit relatives in Los Angeles. Fina worries that the curse of the Demon Cat will follow them to California. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Christine Avila - Abuelita Imelda ...more
Dia de los Muertos
Oct 25 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Join the Mendoza family as they celebrate not only Halloween, but also Dia de los Muertos. Here's a link to curriculum for the episode. You'll find more eductional materials on our Facts Behind the Fiction blog at the website. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica V...more
Let Kids Vote! Part Two
Oct 18 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. It’s a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they’d like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina’s congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically,...more
Let Kids Vote! Part One
Oct 11 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. It’s a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they’d like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina’s congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically,...more
Coming this week: Let Kids Vote!
Oct 08 2022
Just in time for the November elections, we're re-releasing our special 2-part election episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's called "Let Kids Vote." The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Free curriculum for this episode.
Meet Steve DeVorkin who plays Senator Something and Fr. Andrew
Oct 04 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Actor Steve DeVorkin channels our big orange dog Senator Something on the show. But this season, he also tackles another role: the House Chaplain Fr. Andrew. Find out more about the cast at the website. Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book St...more
Meet Fina Mendoza, Actress Amy Solano
Sep 27 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Actress Amy Solano plays Fina Mendoza. And here's a secret: she's not really a 10-year-old girl. Find out more about the cast at the website. Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Pre...more
Meet Gabby Mendoza, played by Monica Vigil
Sep 20 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In real life, actress Monica Vigil is a brand new third grade teacher. On The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, she plays Fina Mendoza's older sister Gabby. Monica talks about her character in Season 2 and her real-life relationship with actress Amy Solano who plays Fina. Find out more about the cast at the website. Find out the facts behind the fict...more
Steven Cuevas on Papa the Congressman
Sep 13 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Steven Cuevas spends much of his time as a public radio journalist, interviewing politicians. In The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, he plays a politician, Congressman Arturo Mendoza of California's 34th congressional district. Steven talks to writer/producer Kitty Felde about his character and real-life politicians LA City Attorney Mike Feuer and L...more
Meet Abuelita: Actress Christina Avila
Sep 06 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. There are two Fina in the Mendoza household: Fina, the 10-year-old detective in the U.S. Capitol, and her grandmother Abuelita. Actress Christine Avila brings Abuelita to life. Meet her in this bonuse episode. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries? Check out our blog. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast i...more
S2; EPISODE 18 - SEASON FINALE - The Message from Chickcharney
Aug 30 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 18, all of Washington is talking about the capture of the Burrowing Owl that pooped on the president during the State of the Union address. But not about Fina. Papa's political fundraiser with LA food trucks seems to be a huge success. And Fina gets a very special letter. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This wee...more
S2; EPISODE 17 - Beware the Rayburn Garage
Aug 23 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 17, Fina and her loyal canine companion Senator Something track down Chickcharney in one of the U.S. Capitol's parking garages. But will Fina learn the bird's secret message? Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we explain what's up with the construction in the Rayburn Garage. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries a...more
S2; EPISODE 16 - It's All Happening at the Zoo
Aug 16 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 16, Fina's investigation takes her to the National Zoo where she finds out more about the Burrowing Owls. But Fina's client Monica suffers a major setback. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we explain Congressional Subpeonas. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast i...more
S2; EPISODE 15 - Abuelita Come Home!
Aug 09 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina uses her detecting skills to help her father find her grandmother who has run away from home. Their search takes them to a church basement kitchen. Want to know more about the Facts Behind the Fiction? This week, our blog takes a look at a Congressional Work Week. How much does Congress really work? Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Steven C...more
S2; EPISODE 14 - Solving the Mysteries of Fractions and Chickcharney
Aug 02 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina discovers some important clues about the mysterious bird that pooped on the president. Her teacher helps her solve some difficult math problems. And Fina tries to solve the mysteries of dogs. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. In Episode 14, Congressman Arturo Mendoza scolds his mother for participating in an immigration...more
S2; EPISODE 13 - Family Feud
Jul 26 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina's father and grandmother have an enormous fight with serious consequences. And there's nothing Fina can do about it. In Episode 13, Congressman Arturo Mendoza scolds his mother for participating in an immigration protest at the U.S. Capitol - and then going on TV to talk about it. Is it illegal for the relative of a member of Congress to protest in fron...more
S2; EPISODE 12 - Protesting 101
Jul 19 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina's grandmother takes her to a meeting where an immigration reform protest is being organized. Abuelita's activism results in a major dispute with her son, Congressman Arturo Mendoza after she's nearly arrested outside the U.S. Capitol. Protests outside the U.S. Capitol are nothing new. Click HERE to read about the history of protests outside the U.S. Ca...more
S2; EPISODE 11 - Chickcharney!
Jul 12 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina is on the hunt for Chickcharney in the basement of the U.S. Capitol, but the hunt leads to some serious consequences. In Episode 11 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, Fina is wandering around the tunnel that connects the U.S. Capitol with the House office buildings and says: “That’s funny. I never noticed that before. One side of the Cannon tunnel ...more
S2; EPISODE 10 - No More Church Shopping
Jul 05 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. The Mendoza family finally find a church that feels like home. And Abuelita finds a new community of activists. And Gabby gets her phone back. Meanwhile, Fina is not happy with her new detecting partner St. Sebastian. He's a bird dog and easily distracted. But Fina has a breakthrough in her investigation of the bird that pooped on the head of the President. ...more
BONUS EPISODE: LOSING IS DEMOCRATIC: How to Talk to Your Kids About January 6th
Jul 01 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. After the attack on the Capitol on January 6th of last year, we saw the need to help parents and teachers talk to kids about what happened – without scaring them half to death, and to put the insurrection in some sort of historic context that kids could understand. We created a special episode called LOSING IS DEMOCRATIC with FREE curriculum that can be used...more
S2; EPISODE 9 - Bird Dogs and Instagram
Jun 28 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina enlists the help of an expert as she continues the search for the bird that pooped on the President: a bird dog. Meanwhile, Gabby's in the doghouse for posting selfies on Instagram. In episode 9 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, Fina and her family spot a familiar face at Sunday mass: the House Chaplain. Who's the House Chaplain? How Long have we had one? ...more
S2; EPISODE 8 - Snowmozilla!
Jun 21 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. All of Washington is shut down for the storm of the century. Meanwhile, Californians Fina and her sister Gabby learn the joys...and the downsides of snow. In Episode 8 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, Fina asks: Is there anything in the paper about the bird that pooped on the president, Papa? PAPA: Not a word. The news cycle has moved on. What's a news cycle? ...more
S2; EPISODE 7 - Bird Myths
Jun 14 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina continues her investigation into finding the bird that pooped on the President. And she gets a new client: the dog that belongs to the House Chaplain. Meanwhile, Washington DC and the Mendoza family prepare for a blizzard. In Episode 7, Fina’s sister Gabby suggests that she do some bird research at the website of the Audubon Society. Fina stumbles upon ...more
S5; EPISODE 6 - Gang of Eight
Jun 07 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina is still on the hunt for the bird that pooped on the President. Fina's father was just named to a bipartisan group of lawmakers to come up with an immigration bill. Unfortunately, Senator Something wasn't invited, but he manages to disrupt the press conference announcing the group. Meanwhile, Fina's older sister Gabby is fighting with their grandmother ...more
S2; EPISODE 5 - Eagles Everywhere
May 31 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. All of Washington is on the hunt for the bird that pooped on the President - including Fina Mendoza. Social media is having a field day. There's even a hashtag: PoopOnPOTUS. In episode 5 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, everyone assumes the bird that pooped on the President is an eagle. Fina’s 4th grade class is even assigned a homework project: find ...more
S2; EPISODE 4 - State of the Union Speeches and other Squawking
May 24 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. A mysterious bird poops on the president's head during the State of the Union address and Fina and her grandmother are up in the House Gallery, watching when it happens. Papa gives the State of the Union rebuttal speech about immigration reform. The House Minority Leader gives a party. Kitty Felde is writer producer. In Episode 4, after the President deliver...more
S2; EPISODE 3 - Pigeon Peas and Sewing Lessons
May 17 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina decides to take the case of the mysterious Chickcharney... maybe it has a secret message for her! In Episode 3, Papa proposes an idea for a fundraiser for his re-election campaign. “It takes a lot of money to run for Congress,” he says. How much does it cost to run for Congress? Click HERE to read more about the House Chaplain in our Facts Behind the F...more
S2; EPISODE 2 - Senator Something Joins the Hunt
May 10 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina's grandmother finally arrives in Washington, but she seems more excited about seeing a statue of her hero: Ronald Reagan. Meanwhile, Fina enlists the talents of her detecting partner, a big orange dog named Senator Something. Abuelita wants is a picture with that statue of Ronald Reagan. He was the president who signed into law IRCA, the Immigration Ref...more
NEW SEASON Episode 1:The Bird with the Lizard Tail
May 03 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. It's season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and Fina has a new case: find the mysterious Chickcharney, a mythical bird from the Caribbean, for her friend Monica who works in the snack bar. Monica describes Chickcharney as a bird from the island of Andros in the Bahamas that has a "round face, a sharp beak, long legs, and a skinny, curly tail." The tail of a ...more
Season Two Preview: Snow 101 for Californians
Apr 26 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. It's an introduction to snow to those who live in places where snow is a rare event. Our California heroines Fina and her older Sister Gabby try to figure out how you prepare for a blizzard. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of...more
Season Two Preview: Bird Poop
Apr 19 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Hey! Somebody stole our plot! Earlier this year, social media went crazy over a bit of corn chaff that fell on President Biden's lapel. It looked like bird poop. Which is exactly what happens in Season Two of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. And in the book State of the Union: A Fina Mendoza Mystery by Kitty Felde. Give a listen to this sneak preview of ...more
SEASON TWO PREVIEW: Foxes and Birds and Other Animals on Capitol Hill
Apr 12 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. There are more animals on Capitol Hill than you might think. Recently, a fox bit more than half a dozen people outside the U.S. Capitol - including a U.S. Congressman. In this week's sneak preview of Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we learn about the Bald Eagle's relationship to Capitol Hill. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based o...more
SEASON TWO PREVIEW: P is for Political Pundits
Apr 05 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. You can't do a political show in Washington DC without a political pundit. We have two of them on State of the Union: Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. One of them is real: the host of Ken Rudin's Political Junkie, public radio's Ken Rudin. He's joined by actor Garrett M. Brown (Sisters) as his partner in punditry. Ken and Garrett were asked t...more
SEASON TWO PREVIEW: The Mendoza Sisters: Gabby and Fina
Mar 29 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Sometimes Fina and her older sister Gabby are not crabbing at each other. Sometimes. Here's a short scene from Season 2 with our favorite Mendoza sisters. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website ...more
SEASON TWO PREVIEW: Meet the Dogs of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries
Mar 22 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. We respond to Olivia Lily, who comments on The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast with a complaint about the way we treat cats. We also introduce you to yet ANOTHER dog in Season 2! Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the...more
SEASON TWO PREVIEW: Snowmageddon!
Mar 17 2022
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teach...more
Losing is Democratic Part Two Bonus Episode
Jan 04 2022
How do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to...more
Losing is Democratic Part One Bonus Episode
Jan 03 2022
How do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here just by signing up for our Facts Behind the Fiction blog. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mend...more
A Bonus Holiday Episode
Dec 17 2021
Every family celebrates the holidays in their own special way. This year, we spend time with the Mendoza family during their first December in Washington, D.C. as they remember past celebrations and experience new traditions. We are busy taping Season Two of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries State of the Union which premieres in early 2022. The podcast series is based on a series of books by Kitty Felde in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries series. Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union ar...more
Happy Thanksgiving from the Mendoza Family
Nov 22 2021
To thank you this Thanksgiving week, we're reprising our Thanksgiving episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Thank you for listening. Season two begins in late January.
Dia de los Muertos - Day of the Dead
Oct 16 2021
Halloween isn't the only holiday celebrated at this time of year. In the Mexican Catholic tradition, families celebrate Dia de los Muertos - Day of the Dead - on All Saints and All Souls day with sugar skulls and picnics at the cemetery. Join Fina and Gabby Mendoza and their grandmother as they remember their late mom. Curriculum available at the website www.finamendoza.com.
A Preview of Season Two: State of the Union
Aug 13 2021
Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fict...more
Losing is Democratic Part Two
Feb 25 2021
How do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here just by signing up for our Facts Behind the Fiction blog. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mend...more
Losing is Democratic (Part One)
Feb 18 2021
How do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to...more
Christmas Traditions with the Mendoza Family
Nov 27 2020
In this year of upended traditions, we check in with the Mendoza family as they remember their own favorite Christmas past. And we celebrate a Capitol Hill tradition: the lighting of the Capitol Christmas tree. Here's a link to the 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree celebration.
Thanksgiving with the Mendoza Family
Nov 20 2020
I’ll bet you didn’t get to ride in a parade or spend Thanksgiving with your congressman dad answering questions at a Veteran’s hall. That’s how Fina's spending her Thanksgiving on a return visit to California. www.finamendozamysteries.com
Bonus Episode: Dia de los Muertos
Oct 27 2020
This Sunday and Monday, the first and second of November, are the Mexican holiday known as Dia de los Muertos – the Day of the Dead. It’s a celebration we include in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries as Fina and her older sister Gabby try to come to terms with moving across the country from California to Washington after the death of their mom. To honor all of our moms and other loved ones who are no longer with us on this earth, we’re sharing this short scene from the podcast. By the way, we have a cu...more
Let Kids Vote (part two)
Oct 13 2020
It’s a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they’d like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina’s congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot. Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms with the class to answer questions abo...more
Let Kids Vote! (part one)
Oct 06 2020
It’s a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they’d like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina’s congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot. Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms with the class to answer questions abo...more
Let Kids Vote!
Sep 29 2020
A mysterious break-in, a congressional lobbying effort about voting, and a sneaky way to get kids excited about the upcoming election...without the nastiness of politics. In this special bonus episode of THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES, our young detective is attending classes via Zoom. She and her classmates take on a genius project, researching a recent amendment that would allow 16 and 17 year olds to vote. She and her classmates ask, "Why stop at 16? Why not let them vote?" They put the questio...more
Fina's Coronavirus Diary
Apr 24 2020
Fina Mendoza, the 10-year-old detective who lives on Capitol Hill, is stuck at home with her older sister Gabby and her father, a U.S. Congessman. Fina's class assignment is to keep an audio diary as a primary source for future historians, recording what it was like to live through the coronavirus pandemic. Fina checks in by phone with her favorite dog Senator Something and solves the mystery of the missing TV remote control. We also learn about what Congress is doing. Free curriculum and a do...more
Behind the Scenes of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries Podcast
Mar 20 2020
Journalist Susan Valot interviews writer/producer Kitty Felde about the creative choices behind THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES. The podcast is based on the award winning book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. More information at the website finamendozamysteries.com.
Meet the Cast of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries
Feb 04 2020
We asked the cast of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast to tell us a little more about their characters. The podcast is based on the award-winning book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. More information at the website finamendozamysteries.com.
Episode 8 - Case Closed!
Dec 13 2019
Fina ties up loose ends in the case of the mystery of the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill and experiences her first Christmas in Washington, DC. The podcast is based on the award winning book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. More details at the website finamendozamysteries.com.
Episode 7 - Thanksgiving in California
Dec 06 2019
The Mendoza family heads to Los Angeles to celebrate Thanksgiving. Fina worries that the curse of the Demon Cat will follow them to California. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Christine Avila - Abuelita Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina Rachel Desztich - Tia Margarita Brian Bland - Veteran Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde Music ...more
Episode 6 - "Cat"astrophe!
Nov 29 2019
Fina continues to investigate the history of cats in the U.S. Capitol. Papa returns to Washington for a family meal. But then catastrophe strikes. Can the Demon Cat be to blame? The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Mat Kaplan - House Historian Steve Gamber - John the Staffer Brian Bland - Capitol Tour Guide Rosalie Fox - Veterinarian Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something Our tou...more
Episode 5: You Guys Need to Get Out of the House
Nov 22 2019
Fina and Gabby join Claudia at the National Zoo where Fina gathers clues. The Mendoza sisters also celebrate Dia de los Muertos - the Day of the Dead. And Fina comes up with a plan. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil as Gabby Linda Graves as Claudia Christine Avila as Abuelita And Steve DeVorkin as Senator Something Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde Musi...more
Episode 4: We Need Brownies
Nov 15 2019
Fina and Gabby get ready for Halloween without Papa and Abuelita. Fina discovers some of the backstory of the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Christine Avila - Abuelita Raul Garza – Papa Elizabeth Logun - Librarian Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde Music Composed and Performed -...more
Episode 3: The Curse of the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill
Nov 08 2019
Bad luck seems to haunt the Mendoza family. Fina is convinced that the mythical Demon Cat of Capitol Hill is to blame. Fina starts detecting and discovers an important clue. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood Linda Graves - Claudia India Scaglione - Becka William Beemer - Michael Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood Steve Gamber - John the Staffer Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something As...more
Episode 2: If You Want a Friend in Washington
Nov 01 2019
Fina meets a new friend and gets a new job and a new identity: lady detective. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Linda Graves - Claudia India Scaglione - Becka William Beemer - Michael Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood Steve Gamber - John the Staffer Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan ...more
Episode 1: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza
Oct 25 2019
Meet Fina Mendoza. She spends her after school hours in the U.S. Capitol where her father is a congressman. While hunting down a lost sweatshirt in the Capitol Crypt, Fina stumbles over a mysterious creature. Is it the ghost of George Washington? Or perhaps the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill? The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Raul Garza – Papa Christine Avila - Abuelita Linda Graves - Claudia Melanie MacQueen...more
A Preview of "The Fina Mendoza Mysteries"
Oct 01 2019
There’s a legend in Washington, D.C. Anyone who sees the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill will be cursed. Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, just saw it. Can she save her family from “cat”astrophe? These are the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. Season One is based on the award-winning book "Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. There is a 32 page Teacher's Guide to the book and podcast at Amazon. www.finamendozamysteries.com