Local journalist and author Matt Robinson recently announced a deal with Boston Public Market to produce and host a series of in-person, question-and-answer talks with local cookbook authors, which begins Thursday, Sept.11.
Robinson kicks off the series by talking with Boston Public Market’s Shannon Villeaux and Gina Cassara, who co-authored the “Boston Public Market Seasonal Cookbook.” The book details the market’s work with their vendors, community members, and area chefs, and includes a number of Villeaux and Cassara’s favorite recipes, which use locally sourced ingredients.
On Oct. 23, Robinson sits down with Newton-based therapist and caterer Jeanie Gruber to discuss “WISHDISH Boston: Food Memories from Boston’s homeless.” The WISHDISH Project, a nonprofit founded by Gruber, supports the homeless community and those facing food insecurity in both Boston and New Orleans.
Robinson says that the goal of the series is to promote local cooks and authors and their work. He finds the guests through the relationships that he’s built over the years.
“It’s really about relationships,” said Robinson. “A rising tide lifts all boats. That’s how I’ve always operated.”
Robinson’s work has appeared in over 120 publications across the world. He has broadcast on WBZ NewsRadio and hosts a talk show titled “The Writer’s Block” on local access television in Needham. Like Robinson’s new series with Boston Public Market, The Writers Block features local authors and educators in monthly in-person events at venues such as libraries, bookstores, and rotary clubs.
“I’ve reached a bunch of cookbook authors and have made a lot of connections in the food space,” said Robinson. “The [monthly] format of The Writer’s Block worked really well as a live event.”
Robinson hopes to find similar success and attract audiences for his series with Boston Public Market. Having met Gruber during her spots on WBZ, Robinson is especially hopeful that his October talk with her draws well.
“I really would love to help her grow her organization. I don’t know of anything like it,” Robinson said.
The WISHDISH Project, founded in 2021, works with local shelters and kitchens to serve the homeless community. Gruber interviews participants about their favorite dishes and those that give them a feeling of home. She then makes those meals at scale and delivers them to those in need.
Following his Oct.23 talk with Gruber, Robinson will host his next talk at Boston Public Market on Nov. 13. A guest has not yet been announced.