Cookbook Love Podcast
In this weekly podcast, host Maggie Green celebrates cookbook readers, writers, collectors, and clubs, with interviews and conversations about cookbook writing and the role of cookbooks in our lives. Maggie's mission is to build and celebrate a community of people who would rather write, read, and buy a cookbook over any other genre of book.
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Episode 401: The Stories Behind Italian Cookies with Domenica Marchetti
05/14/2026
Episode 401: The Stories Behind Italian Cookies with Domenica Marchetti
Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Before we get started, the doors are now open for Cookbook Writing Foundations for a very limited time, my new program for aspiring cookbook authors who want to move from cookbook idea to clear direction. Inside the program, I’ll help you stop sitting on your cookbook idea and finally begin building it with confidence. Whether you want to preserve family recipes, share your expertise, grow your business, or create something meaningful to pass on, this program will help you make the decisions and take the steps that move cookbook projects forward. Visit to learn more and enroll before the doors close. Today on the show, I have an interview with Domenica Marchetti, author of nine cookbooks, including her newest release, Italian Cookies. In this conversation, Domenica shares the story behind researching and writing a cookbook dedicated to the cookie traditions of all 20 regions of Italy. We talk about the bakery visits, travel experiences, regional specialties, and cultural traditions that shaped the book, as well as the creative process of developing and testing recipes inspired by generations of Italian bakers. In this episode, we discuss: How Domenica researched cookie traditions across all regions of Italy What bakery visits and travel taught her about recipe development and storytelling Her journey from newspaper journalism to becoming a nine-time cookbook author Why consistency, observation, and decision-making matter in cookbook writing The connection between food traditions, culture, and community Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 400: What 400 Podcast Episodes Reveals About Writing and Publishing Cookbooks
05/07/2026
Episode 400: What 400 Podcast Episodes Reveals About Writing and Publishing Cookbooks
Welcome to Episode 400 of the Cookbook Love Podcast! If you’ve been thinking about writing a cookbook, collecting recipes, organizing ideas, or waiting for the right time to begin, I invite you to join my free masterclass happening now: Stop Dreaming About Writing a Cookbook, Start with a Clear Plan. Inside the class, I’ll walk you through the decisions that actually move cookbook projects forward so you can stop circling the idea and start building your book with clarity and direction. If writing a cookbook has been on your heart for a while, this is a chance to take a real next step. Learn more and register at: In this special episode, I’m reflecting on one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned after 400 episodes talking with cookbook writers, authors, and aspiring creators. I’m sharing what I’ve seen over and over again about what actually gets a cookbook written and published and why the difference is often not talent, timing, or opportunity, but willingness. If you’ve been thinking about writing a cookbook but keep waiting for more time, more clarity, or the “right” moment, this episode is for you. I talk about the difference between feeling ready and deciding to begin, the quiet ways we stay in preparation mode, and how repetition and consistency are what truly move projects forward. In this episode, I share: Why willingness matters more than readiness What 400 episodes taught me about consistency and follow-through The subtle ways we delay the projects we care about most The story of finally submitting my first cookbook proposal Why creating space and structure matters if you want your cookbook to happen If you’ve been thinking about writing a cookbook, collecting recipes, organizing ideas, or waiting for the right time to begin, I invite you to join my free masterclass happening now: Stop Dreaming About Writing a Cookbook, Start with a Clear Plan. Inside the class, I’ll walk you through the decisions that actually move cookbook projects forward so you can stop circling the idea and start building your book with clarity and direction. If writing a cookbook has been on your heart for a while, this is a chance to take a real next step. Learn more and register at:
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Episode 399: Katherine Anderson and The London Plane: Preserving a Restaurant’s Spirit Through a Cookbook
04/30/2026
Episode 399: Katherine Anderson and The London Plane: Preserving a Restaurant’s Spirit Through a Cookbook
Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Today I’m talking with Katherine Anderson, owner of The London Plane, a restaurant, flower shop, and bakery that became a meaningful community gathering space. When The London Plane closed in 2023, Katherine chose not to let the story end there. In this conversation, we talk about the vision behind her book, The London Plane Flower and Cook Book, created to capture the spirit of the space and preserve what it meant to so many people. Inside this episode: How the restaurant, flower shop, and bakery came together to create a one-of-a-kind collaborative experience The decision to document and carry forward the space after its closure in 2023 What it looked like to include seasonal recipes, including dishes inspired by flowers, alongside the restaurant’s chef’s contributed recipes Katherine’s self-publishing journey and her perspective for aspiring cookbook authors This episode is a reminder that a cookbook can become a lasting expression of a place while holding its spirit, its creativity, and the community it gathered.
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Episode 398: Why Your Cookbook Project Feels Like It’s Not Going Anywhere
04/23/2026
Episode 398: Why Your Cookbook Project Feels Like It’s Not Going Anywhere
Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Today I talk about why your cookbook can feel like it’s not going anywhere, even when you’re actively working on it—and how a lack of direction underneath the work creates hidden costs that most people don’t see at first. In this episode, I talk about: • Why recipe writing, organizing, and planning can still feel like you’re not making progress • The hidden costs of working without a clear direction for your cookbook • How lack of direction affects time, money, momentum, and decision-making • Why everything feels important when there’s no clear publishing path guiding your choices If your cookbook feels like it’s stuck in motion but not actually taking shape, this episode will help you see what’s really happening underneath the surface. You’re not stuck because you’re not working enough—you’re stuck because your work doesn’t yet have a clear direction to move in. If you want help turning your ideas into a cookbook—and getting paid to do it—
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Episode 397: The Rhythms That Help Me Think, Write, and Cook
04/16/2026
Episode 397: The Rhythms That Help Me Think, Write, and Cook
Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. In this episode, I’m sharing something personal. There’s a lot of conversation right now about AI. How to use it, how to move faster, how to generate more. And while I do use it in certain ways, I’ve found myself coming back to something very different that is not faster or more. In this episode, I walk you through the rhythm I’ve developed to support how I think, write, and cook. These are simple practices I return to every day and every week, not as a system, but as a way of staying connected to my work. Over time, this rhythm has helped me think more clearly, make decisions more easily, and stay present in the process of writing. If you’ve been feeling scattered, stuck, or disconnected from your cookbook project, this episode will give you a grounded place to return to. In this episode, I talk about: The daily practices that help me think clearly What supports creative thinking and decision-making The role of daily and weekly rhythms in staying creatively fueled What it looks like to build a rhythm that supports your work In the end, writing a cookbook and running a business isn’t just about the book or the business. It’s about your life while you create while working on and in them. If you want help turning your ideas into a cookbook—and getting paid to do it— .
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Episode 396: Southern Roots and the Life That Shaped It with Spring Council
04/09/2026
Episode 396: Southern Roots and the Life That Shaped It with Spring Council
In this episode, I’m joined by chef, author, and vintage curator Spring Council to talk about her beautiful new book Southern Roots. Spring spent over 50 years working in her family’s restaurant, Mama Dip’s Kitchen, where she learned firsthand how food creates connection, community, and lasting memories. In our conversation, we talk about how that experience shaped her cookbook — from the stories she tells to the recipes she creates — and what it really looks like to bring a book like this to life. In this episode, we talk about: What “Mama Dip’s University” taught her about food, people, and hospitality How Southern Roots blends storytelling with recipes Her path through writing, rejection, and finding her voice How she develops recipes that honor tradition while making them her own The role of community in both her restaurant life and her cookbook If you love cookbooks that feel personal, meaningful, and grounded in real experience, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. If you want help turning your ideas into a cookbook—and getting paid to do it—
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Episode 395: How Hannah Dasher Turned Visibility into the Stand By Your Pan Cookbook
04/02/2026
Episode 395: How Hannah Dasher Turned Visibility into the Stand By Your Pan Cookbook
Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Today I'm excited to have an interview with Hannah Dasher. Hannah is a country music artist, creator, and author of Stand By Your Pan. Hannah built a loyal audience during quarantine by sharing nostalgic, personality-filled cooking videos—and has now turned that visibility into a cookbook rooted in Southern food, storytelling, and style. In this conversation, we talk about how her online presence shaped her book, the recipes and traditions behind it, and the practical techniques that bring her cooking to life. In this episode, we discuss: How Hannah’s TikTok content grew into a cookbook Building a cooking brand through personality and nostalgia Recipes inspired by family, viral moments, and Southern traditions Stock your kitchen (bones, fats, and fresh ingredients) Practical cooking tips—from tomato pie to fried chicken livers to ham stock Why preserving recipes and food traditions still matters If you’ve ever wondered how audience, voice, and recipes come together in a cookbook, this episode gives you a real example. If you want help turning your ideas into a cookbook—and getting paid to do it—
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Episode 394: The Cookbook Idea You Think You Shouldn’t Write (But Maybe Should)
03/26/2026
Episode 394: The Cookbook Idea You Think You Shouldn’t Write (But Maybe Should)
What if your cookbook idea doesn’t match your profession? In this episode, I’m talking about one of the most common and costly questions I hear from aspiring cookbook authors, especially experts like dietitians, chefs, and health professionals. Many people assume their cookbook needs to match their credentials. That it should sound serious, clinical, or highly technical to be taken seriously. But publishing doesn’t work that way. Publishers are not buying credentials alone. They’re looking for ideas readers care about and that often comes from something much more personal. In this episode, I share my own experience navigating this tension as a trained dietitian who wanted to write about seasonal home cooking in Kentucky. I also walk you through how cookbook deals actually work, and why the most compelling books combine both authority and humanity. If you’ve been holding back on a cookbook idea because it doesn’t feel “professional enough,” this episode will give you a new way to think about it. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why do so many experts feel pressure to write the “right” kind of book What publishers are actually looking for when they acquire cookbooks The three common paths cookbook deals follow Why passion creates reader connection in a way that credentials alone can’t How to combine your expertise with a story readers care about Your credentials matter. But they’re not the whole story. The book you’re meant to write might be the one you’ve been telling yourself you shouldn’t. If you want to prepare your deal-ready pitch package and get paid to write a cookbook,
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Episode 393: Why Followers Alone Don't Get Cookbook Deals
03/19/2026
Episode 393: Why Followers Alone Don't Get Cookbook Deals
Many aspiring cookbook authors believe they need a huge social media following before a publisher will take them seriously. But in traditional publishing, follower count alone is not what gets a cookbook deal. In this episode, I talk about what publishers are really looking for when they ask about your platform. They want to know whether you have real relationships with people who know you, trust you, engage with your work, and are likely to buy your book. I also share why writing, conversation, and proof of engagement matter so much more than chasing random followers. In this episode, I cover: Why follower count alone is not enough What publishers really want to know about your audience How to identify the people already in your world who would buy your book Why writing and relationship-building are essential for becoming a paid cookbook author If you’ve been feeling behind because your audience is not huge, this episode will help you focus on what actually matters. If you want to get paid to write a cookbook,
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Episode 392: 25 Unexpected Benefits of Writing a Cookbook
03/12/2026
Episode 392: 25 Unexpected Benefits of Writing a Cookbook
Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Most people think the outcome of writing a cookbook is the finished book, but I’ve seen something much bigger happen along the way. In this episode, I explore what really happens when we choose a meaningful creative challenge like writing a cookbook. Many cookbook writers I work with are already successful professionals: chefs, dietitians, coaches, and entrepreneurs who decide to write a book not because they have to, but because the work matters to them. I share the unexpected benefits I’ve seen from writing a cookbook, including identity shifts, creative discipline, professional credibility, community, and new opportunities. In this episode, I talk about: • Why writing a cookbook is a chosen challenge • How creative projects activate your agency and identity • Why hard work doesn’t have to feel miserable • The deeper benefits that come from finishing a creative project Whether you’re writing a cookbook, building a food business, or starting another creative project, this episode will help you see the deeper transformation that can happen when you commit to creating something meaningful. If you want to get paid to write a cookbook,
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Episode 391: Baking and the Meaning of Life: A Conversation with Helen Goh
03/05/2026
Episode 391: Baking and the Meaning of Life: A Conversation with Helen Goh
Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Today I’m excited to share a conversation with Helen Goh, the author of the beautiful new cookbook Baking and the Meaning of Life: How to Find Joy in 100 Recipes. Helen is widely known for her work as a recipe developer with Yotam Ottolenghi, co-authoring the New York Times bestselling books Sweet and Comfort. In this episode, we talk about her debut solo cookbook and the deeper meaning behind baking. Helen brings a unique perspective to the kitchen. In addition to her acclaimed baking work, she also maintains a psychotherapy practice. In her new book, she blends these two worlds—sharing not only wonderful recipes, but also reflections on why baking matters and how it can bring joy and meaning to everyday life. Drawing on her upbringing in Malaysia and Australia, as well as years of developing recipes with Ottolenghi, Helen shares both sweet and savory bakes that celebrate creativity, connection, and nourishment. In this episode, we talk about: • Helen’s journey from recipe developer to writing her first solo cookbook • Her collaboration with Yotam Ottolenghi and what she learned along the way • The inspiration behind Baking and the Meaning of Life • How baking adds meaning to everyday moments • Why baking is about more than survival. It’s about joy and connection • Highlights from the table of contents and some of the recipes in the book • Tips, techniques, and baking insights from Helen’s years in professional kitchens Want to Get Paid to Write Your Cookbook? If you’re dreaming about writing a cookbook, you might assume you need to finish the entire manuscript before approaching publishers. But in traditional publishing, cookbook authors are often paid an advance before they write the book. In my Get Paid to Write a Cookbook Masterclass, I teach the step-by-step process for positioning your cookbook idea so publishers can invest in it. You’ll learn: • How traditional cookbook deals actually work • What publishers are looking for in cookbook ideas • The path to pitching a cookbook proposal with confidence
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Episode 390: From Guesswork to Clarity: The Path to a Traditional Cookbook Deal
02/26/2026
Episode 390: From Guesswork to Clarity: The Path to a Traditional Cookbook Deal
Many aspiring cookbook authors believe they need to finish writing their book before pitching it to publishers. It sounds logical — but it often leads to years of uncertainty, backtracking, and stalled momentum. In this episode, Maggie explains why traditional cookbook publishing is a process, not a guessing game, and how clarity — not a finished manuscript — is what leads to a book deal and an advance. You’ll learn: • why publishers buy concepts, positioning, and authors — not finished manuscripts • how lack of clarity creates hesitation for agents and editors • the hidden trap of writing first and pitching later • what it means to become a deal-ready cookbook author • the three essentials needed to pursue a traditional cookbook deal If you’ve been thinking, “I’ll finish the book and figure out publishing later,” this episode will help you see a clearer path forward. 👉 Register for the free masterclass: and learn the step-by-step path to position your cookbook for a traditional deal and get paid before you write.
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Episode 389: From Yacht Chef to Global Kitchen — Abby Cheshire’s Passport to Flavor
02/19/2026
Episode 389: From Yacht Chef to Global Kitchen — Abby Cheshire’s Passport to Flavor
Today I’m excited to have an interview with Abby Cheshire. Abby is a private chef, culinary educator, and content creator best known for her social media presence as @abbyinthegalley. With experience cooking on luxury yachts and for private clients, Abby shares what it’s really like to work as a chef from high-pressure yacht kitchens to immersive dinner events while teaching accessible global recipes and telling stories through food. Before we get started, I want to share a quick invitation. If you are a food, nutrition, or culinary expert — a chef, dietitian, food blogger, culinary educator, caterer, or passionate home cook with a message to share — and you want to understand what traditional publishers are looking for in 2026, I’d love to invite you to my upcoming masterclass: Get Paid to Write a Cookbook. In this class, you’ll learn how to craft a viable cookbook concept that attracts agents and publishers, understand what publishers are looking for right now, and build three deal-ready essentials so you feel confident and prepared to pitch. If you’re ready to stop guessing and gain a clear path to traditional publishing, you can register at . The link is also below in the show notes, and I would love to see you there. In my conversation with Abby, we talked about her experience cooking on luxury yachts, what it’s like working as a private chef in high-pressure environments, and how she built a loyal audience by sharing the real behind-the-scenes life of a chef. We also discuss her new book, Passport to Flavor: 100 Global Dishes You Can Make Anywhere, and how she helps beginning cooks and adventurous eaters gain confidence cooking cuisines from around the world — right in their own kitchens. So without further delay, let’s dive into this conversation with Abby Cheshire. Things We Mention In This Episode:
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Episode 388: Being a Cookbook Writer: Italy in a Glass with Susan Gravely
02/12/2026
Episode 388: Being a Cookbook Writer: Italy in a Glass with Susan Gravely
Hello, and welcome to another episode of the podcast. Before we dive into our interview today, I want to let you know I have a very special masterclass coming up called How to Get Paid to Write a Cookbook. In this clas,s I will help you: Discover what traditional publishers want in 2026 Position yourself for a publishing deal without years of trial & error Craft a viable cookbook concept that attracts agents & publishers Build three deal-ready essentials to help you feel prepared To register, head over to Today on the podcast, I’m excited to have an interview with Susan Gravely. is the Founder and CEO Emerita of , a lifestyle brand offering handcrafted Italian tabletop and home-and-garden accessories. She started VIETRI alongside her sister and mother after they took a magical trip to Italy in 1983. They fell in love with the hand-painted dinnerware we found on the Amalfi Coast and decided to start a wholesale business. Since that trip forty years ago, VIETRI has become the largest American importer of Italian ceramics. Susan is the author of 2 books Italy on a Plate, which we discussed in Episode 234, and today her newest book Italy in a Glass, where Susan explores the Italian ritual of aperitivo, where cocktails, mocktails, and small bites set the stage for festive gatherings. Inspired by her own experiences in Italy, Gravely shares the art of entertaining Italian-style, blending personal stories with time-tested recipes and tips from her Italian friends. Today on the show we talk about: Building VIETRI: From a Family Discovery to a Global Brand Italy, Craftsmanship, and Living Beautifully Cookbook Writing & Storytelling Through Food Leadership, Legacy, and Susan’s Next Chapter as CEO Emerita Things We Mention In This Episode:
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Episode 387: From Restaurant Legacy to Published Cookbook: Nina Greipel and Gasthaus Cookbook
02/05/2026
Episode 387: From Restaurant Legacy to Published Cookbook: Nina Greipel and Gasthaus Cookbook
In today’s episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast, Maggie sits down with former student and now published cookbook author Nina Greipel, creator of Gasthaus: Cookbook & Memories. Before we dive in, I want to invite you to register for my upcoming masterclass — Get Paid to Write a Cookbook. If you’re a food, nutrition, or culinary expert who dreams of writing a cookbook and attracting a traditional publishing deal, this masterclass will walk you through what publishers are looking for in 2026, how to craft a cookbook concept that stands out, and how advances really work. You can register for the class using the link in the show notes. For over 30 years, Nina’s family ran The Gasthaus restaurant in Louisville, Kentucky — a beloved hidden gem known for authentic German flavors and warm hospitality. In this episode, Nina shares how she preserved her family’s restaurant legacy in a beautifully photographed, full-color cookbook. You’ll hear about: The story behind The Gasthaus restaurant and its impact on the community How Nina decided to turn her family’s recipes into a cookbook The process of testing, developing, and photographing over 80 recipes What it was like working through the cookbook publishing journey step-by-step How being part of a supportive group helped her finish and publish her book Tips and lessons Nina learned along the way If you love cookbooks with heart, history, and meaningful stories — or if you dream of publishing your own — this episode will inspire you. Things We Mention In This Episode:
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Episode 386: From Diagnosis to Cookbook: Emily Maxon’s Journey to Real Food, Every Day
01/29/2026
Episode 386: From Diagnosis to Cookbook: Emily Maxon’s Journey to Real Food, Every Day
In today’s episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast, Maggie sits down with chef and cookbook author Emily Maxon, whose newest book Real Food, Every Day was born out of a life-changing health journey. Emily is a trained chef and lifelong food lover who, at age 28, was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. That diagnosis led her to the Specific Carbohydrate Diet — a rigorous way of eating designed to support gut health and healing. Drawing on her years of experience as a chef and caterer, Emily made it her mission to create recipes that not only met the diet’s strict guidelines but also tasted wonderful and helped people feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally. How Emily’s personal health challenges became the catalyst for creating her cookbook Real Food, Every Day • What it was like navigating the journey from cookbook idea to published book • Lessons Emily learned along the way about writing and publishing a cookbook rooted in real-life experience • Practical tips for aspiring cookbook authors on turning personal stories into strong cookbook concepts • How to stay motivated through the long (and rewarding) process of writing and publishing a cookbook If you’ve ever wondered how a personal challenge can become the foundation for a meaningful cookbook, or how chefs and food experts can turn their expertise into a published book, this episode is full of inspiration and insight. Things We Mention In This Episode:
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Episode 385: Being a Cookbook Writer: Uplifting Indigenous Culture & Traditions with Pyet DeSpain
01/22/2026
Episode 385: Being a Cookbook Writer: Uplifting Indigenous Culture & Traditions with Pyet DeSpain
Today on the Cookbook Love Podcast, I am honored to welcome Pyet Despain, a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Tribe, award-winning global private chef, and the first winner of Gordon Ramsay’s groundbreaking competition series Next Level Chef. Pyets’s life and work are rooted in Indigenous fusion cuisine, where she weaves together the food traditions of her Native American and Mexican heritage. Through her cooking, storytelling, and travel, Pyet is dedicated to uplifting Indigenous culture and honoring the traditions passed down through generations. Originally from the Osage Indian Reservation in Kansas City, Kansas, Pyet now resides in Los Angeles, California, where she continues to share her culinary voice with the world. Her beautiful new book, Rooted in Fire, reflects her journey, her heritage, and her deep respect for food as a cultural and spiritual expression. In today’s conversation Pyet shares: The story behind Rooted in Fire, who the book is for, and what inspired her to bring this project to life. Her journey from idea to finished book, the message she hopes cooks and bakers will take away, and how her work connects food, identity, and tradition. The book's structure, including its table of contents, key themes in the chapters, and several recipes you can try at home, allows you to experience the flavors and stories of Indigenous cuisine in your own kitchen. Things We Mention In This Episode:
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Episode 384: Being a Cookbook Writer: Abstaining with the Saints with Michael Foley
01/15/2026
Episode 384: Being a Cookbook Writer: Abstaining with the Saints with Michael Foley
In today’s episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Michael P. Foley, Catholic theologian, professor, and author of Abstaining with the Saints. Michael is best known for his beloved Drinking with the Saints series, and in this new book, he turns his attention to alcohol-free celebrations that are just as meaningful, festive, and rooted in the liturgical year. Abstaining with the Saints offers nearly 200 thoughtfully crafted mocktail recipes, along with alcohol-free beer, wine, and spirit suggestions that align with Catholic feast days and seasons. Each recipe is paired with stories and facts about the saints, creating a joyful way to honor the Church calendar without alcohol. In our conversation, we explore: Why Michael felt called to create a non-alcoholic companion to Drinking with the Saints How mocktails can support sober, “soberish,” and alcohol-free lifestyles The role of saints and celebration in Catholic life How food and drink can deepen our connection to family, faith, tradition, and community Who this book is for, and how it can serve families, parishes, and individuals alike Things We Mention In This Episode:
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Episode 383: Being a Cookbook Writer: Ins and Outs for 2026
01/08/2026
Episode 383: Being a Cookbook Writer: Ins and Outs for 2026
Welcome to another episode of the podcast. Today, I have a fun episode called the Ins and Outs for 2026. This episode was inspired by the Ins and Outs list I did last year and focuses on things I did in 2025 that I want to do again, and new stuff I want to try. The outs are things I don’t want to bring forward into the new year that no longer serve me, or don’t help me live the life I want to live, or that use my precious time and life thinking, feeling, or doing. Things We Mention In This Episode:
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Episode 382: Eating to Thrive During Menopause with Jenn Huber, RD, ND
01/01/2026
Episode 382: Eating to Thrive During Menopause with Jenn Huber, RD, ND
Hello and Happy New Year to everyone! Welcome to 2026 and to a new year of podcast episodes. Today, we kick off the new year with a brand new episode with registered dietitian, naturopath doctor, and intuitive eating counselor Jenn Huber. Jenn is the author of Eating to Thrive During Menopause, and on today’s show, we talk all about: How not being able to use HRT prompted Jenn to learn about nutrition and menopause Jenn’s experience writing a nutrition cookbook that isn’t a diet book The “5 Key Ingredients” framework and how it shaped the recipes Starting 2026 with a non-diet resolution Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 381: Peace on Earth, Goodwill to All
12/25/2025
Episode 381: Peace on Earth, Goodwill to All
Hello and Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Season's Greetings to all! Today I share a message of peace and our shared love of cookbooks. For this special holiday episode, I share some holiday cookbook recommendations, a wintertime story, and the music of Daniel Kantor and the St. Olaf Choir. Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 380: Sustainable Living and Savoring the Seasons with Gesine Bullock-Prado
12/18/2025
Episode 380: Sustainable Living and Savoring the Seasons with Gesine Bullock-Prado
Today, I’m delighted to welcome Gesine Bullock-Prado to the podcast. Gesine is a pastry chef, cookbook author, and television personality whose work is rooted in an approachable, farm-to-table way of cooking and living. She is the owner of Sugar Glider Kitchen and the author of the beautiful new cookbook, My Harvest Kitchen. In this conversation, we talk about Gesine’s embrace of homesteading, her philosophy of what she calls The Gentle Harvest, and the rhythms of cooking in step with the seasons. We move through My Harvest Kitchen chapter by chapter, exploring the ideas, recipes, and sensibility behind the book to capture the flavor, intention, and feeling of Gesine’s harvest kitchen. In this episode, we discuss: Gesine Bullock-Prado’s work as a pastry chef, cookbook author, and homesteader The philosophy behind The Gentle Harvest How homesteading influences everyday kitchen decisions A chapter-by-chapter look at My Harvest Kitchen Savoring the seasons through thoughtful, approachable cooking Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 379: Cookbook Design, Art Direction & Homemade Pie with Laura Klynstra
12/11/2025
Episode 379: Cookbook Design, Art Direction & Homemade Pie with Laura Klynstra
Today, I am excited to have an interview with Laura Klynstra. Laura Klynstra is a senior art director for Revell Books and a freelance graphic designer and photographer. Previously, she worked as an art director at Hyperion Books and at HarperCollins Publishers in New York City. She is the author of The Homemade Pie Cookbook: 100 Pie, Tart, and Galette Recipes for Every Season. On the show today, we: Dive into cookbook art direction for traditional publishing and self-published books Laura’s journey from idea to published cookbook Three parts to every pie and tops for pie baking Discussion of pies perfect for winter- and Christmas/Holiday-time. Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 378: Athens: Food, Stories, Love, and Cookbooks with Diane Kochilas
12/04/2025
Episode 378: Athens: Food, Stories, Love, and Cookbooks with Diane Kochilas
Today on the podcast, I’m joined by Diane Kochilas. Diane is a New York Times Bestselling Author and host of five seasons of the acclaimed PBS show My Greek Table. In her new book, Athens: Food, Stories, Love, Diane takes readers on a culinary tour of Greece’s most-visited city: Athens. Having lived in Athens for over thirty years, Diane has witnessed enormous social and culinary changes all around her. Today, the kitchens of Athens overflow with new creative energy while international ingredients fill the markets. Culinary influences on the Athenian table from around the globe are well-represented with recipes for French-inspired croissants, Italian twists on Greek classics, and Greek-Mex twists on beloved gigantes beans. As one of the most recognized voices for Greek Cuisine, Diane and I talk about: Her role as a cultural storyteller and teacher of Greek cuisine Her career is writing books and doing her TV show The sources for how she collects stories and recipes for her books And of course, all about her new book Athens, from the plant-forward approach to cooking and the spirit of Greek hospitality found in a Taverna. Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 377: Recipes, Resilience, and Creating In Good Health with Rachel Riggs
11/27/2025
Episode 377: Recipes, Resilience, and Creating In Good Health with Rachel Riggs
Today on the podcast, I’m joined by Rachel Riggs, author of In Good Health. As a former specialty food shop owner, Rachel’s life dramatically changed due to chronic illness. Refocusing her work toward healing, she started developing anti-inflammatory recipes rooted in her California sensibilities. Rachel now lives with limited stamina and, despite that, wrote her cookbook with a focus on celebrating what’s possible, flavorful, and aligned with her healing. Her mission is to inspire readers to transform their health and well-being through modern, vibrant food that excites the senses, rejuvenates the palate, and liberates readers from outdated habits. In Good Health features over 75 recipes designed for those with chronic illness, dietary restrictions, or anyone craving nutrient-dense, grounding, everyday food. Ingredients lists are short, prep times are reasonable, and each recipe includes a photo to guide readers with clarity and confidence. In This Episode We Talk About: How Rachel approaches cooking by celebrating what’s included, not what’s missing The art and challenge of baking with almond flour and maple syrup What it means to create dishes from scratch rather than adapting traditional recipes Her message for cooks and bakers navigating new dietary needs or chronic illness Why she encourages writers to create organically, long before a book deal Rachel’s story is a powerful reminder that creativity and nourishment can flourish even in seasons of limitation. You can write a cookbook and rebuild a meaningful cooking life from exactly where you are. Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 376: Running the Race of Writing a Book with Running Coach & Author Michele Pettinger
11/20/2025
Episode 376: Running the Race of Writing a Book with Running Coach & Author Michele Pettinger
Today on the show, I’m joined by Michele Pettinger, a certified running coach, fitness nutrition specialist, and functional nutrition counselor. As the owner of P3Running, Michelle blends run coaching with nutrition education for athletes of all ages, helping young runners understand how food supports performance, recovery, and long-term well-being. However, before we begin, I'd like to share a free resource with you. If you are a food, nutrition, or culinary pro and you want to share your expertise in a published cookbook, one thing a publisher will want you to have is a platform. This is your visibility in the marketplace. If you would like some guidance on what a platform is, why you should have one, and some tips on building one, head on over to for a complimentary checklist download. In this episode, we talk about: Michele’s journey from idea to publication of her new book: The Young Runner’s Guide to Nutrition. How she shaped her concept that connects nutrition science with workable recipes Why she wrote this book for young athletes, their parents, and coaches? Her writing process, the resources she leaned on, and the systems she built to stay organized Insights about building a platform, and not letting social media metrics distract you from your mission. Whether you're a runner, a cook, a baker, an athlete, or an aspiring author, Michele’s story is a powerful reminder that writing a book is a race built on one day, one habit, one recipe, one chapter at a time. Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 375: A Conversation with Mother–Son Authors Jyoti and Auyon Mukharji of Heartland Masala
11/13/2025
Episode 375: A Conversation with Mother–Son Authors Jyoti and Auyon Mukharji of Heartland Masala
In today’s episode, I’m pleased to welcome mother–son cookbook author team Jyoti and Auyon Mukharji, authors of Heartland Masala: An Indian Cookbook from an American Kitchen. Before we dive in: If you are ready to start your own cookbook project with clarity and direction, is available for a few more days. This resource provides a structured path to begin organizing your recipes, shaping your stories, and moving toward a publishable cookbook. Details are linked in the show notes section below. Heartland Masala is a vibrant, richly illustrated celebration of Indian home cooking, written from the heart of the American Midwest. Rooted in both tradition and diaspora, the book blends recipes from Punjab, Bengal, and throughout India with the lived experience of a family that has called Kansas City home for decades. In this conversation, we explore: Inspiration — How Heartland Masala was born from years of Joyti teaching, family heritage, and the desire to preserve Indian home cooking in a Midwestern context. Process — Their collaborative mother–son workflow, recipe testing, adapting regional dishes, and shaping the book’s structure. Storytelling — Why they included essays, cultural notes, culinary history, memories, and narrative elements to deepen the reader’s connection to Indian food. Legacy & Impact — What they learned from writing across generations and what they hope the book will contribute to readers, family, and culture. The book features beloved classics such as Saag Paneer and Vindaloo, lesser-known gems like Bengali Murgh Rezala and Anglo-Indian Spiced Liver Toast, as well as inventive new creations, including Masala Brussels Sprouts and Spiced Watermelon. Jyoti and Auyon even include a handful of cocktail recipes, adding a playful touch to the collection. Their work is a testament to the richness of Indian cuisine, the power of family collaboration, and the vibrant interplay between heritage and place. Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 374: From Recipes to Revenue: How Writing Fuels our Life and Business
11/06/2025
Episode 374: From Recipes to Revenue: How Writing Fuels our Life and Business
What begins as a handwritten recipe or a note in the margins of a cookbook can become the seed of something much bigger. In today’s episode, we explores what every writer needs to write and how your words can do more than fill a page. They can feed both your readers and your business. You’ll also hear about a free resource to spark your creativity: 👉 a guide packed with ideas to help you transform your recipes, writing, and creativity into meaningful income. If you’ve ever wondered how to bridge your love of cooking and writing into a business, this episode is your invitation to begin. Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 373: Navigate the Cookbook Publishing Industry
10/30/2025
Episode 373: Navigate the Cookbook Publishing Industry
Hi everybody, and welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Last week, we talked about the traditional publishing team and the real benefits of working with a publisher — how editors, designers, and marketers help bring a cookbook to life. This week, I’m sharing Part 1 of my three-part Publish Your Cookbook Masterclass, called Navigating the Publishing Industry. In this first session, we’re tackling one of the biggest challenges cookbook writers face — figuring out how to navigate the publishing world. If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t know where to start.” “I’m afraid of choosing the wrong path.” “Publishing feels so complicated,” Then this session is for you. You’ll learn about the three main types of publishing — independent, hybrid, and traditional — and how to decide which path aligns with your goals. It’s the clarity so many professionals have been missing — a way to see exactly where you fit in the publishing landscape and how to move forward with confidence. Before we dive in, I want to let you know that the doors are open to until this evening at 10 PM Eastern. This is your final chance to join us for this round, and I wanted to give you one more opportunity to experience the masterclass and see if writing a cookbook and getting it traditionally published is right for you. So settle in and enjoy this replay, Navigating the Publishing Industry from the Publish Your Cookbook Masterclass. Things We Mention in This Episode:
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Episode 372: The Power of a Traditional Publishing Team
10/23/2025
Episode 372: The Power of a Traditional Publishing Team
✨ Before we get started, an exciting announcement! ✨ Are you a food, nutrition, or culinary professional dreaming of publishing a cookbook? Right now we are in the middle of our Publish Your Cookbook Masterclass. In this free masterclass, we are discussing the shortcut most aspiring authors miss — how to publish your cookbook without writing your book first. You’ll discover how to position yourself as the author publishers want right now and follow the exact steps to land your first book deal. Don’t miss this opportunity to watch this on-demand class (like Netflix)! 👉 Register at . Have you ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes once a cookbook is acquired by a traditional publisher? Who edits your recipes? Who decides the fonts and photography style? And what’s actually your job once the contract is signed? Today, we’re mapping it all out — The Professional Cookbook Team Map — so you can see exactly how a cookbook moves from manuscript to masterpiece. By the end of this episode, you’ll know: Who handles editing, design, and photography What’s expected of you as the author And what you can focus on right now to actually get paid to write your cookbook Things We Mention in This Episode:
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