Rachael Ray Reveals Why She Hasn’t Released New Episodes of Her Podcast (Exclusive)
Rachael Ray, the beloved culinary expert and television personality, has recently opened up about the status of her podcast, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead. Since launching the series in October 2024, Ray captivated audiences with eight engaging episodes featuring celebrity guests. However, fans have noticed a pause in new releases, prompting curiosity about the podcast’s future. In an exclusive conversation at the New York City Wine & Food Festival, Ray shared candid insights into why she hasn’t released new episodes and what lies ahead for her creative ventures.
Why Rachael Ray Has Paused New Episodes of Her Podcast
When asked about the hiatus of I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead, Rachael Ray explained that the primary reason for the pause is her demanding schedule. “I haven’t decided,” she told PEOPLE during the festival. “I got such a huge order for new shows with my company, Free Food.” This statement highlights the significant workload Ray is managing behind the scenes.
In 2024, Ray’s production company, Free Food Studios, entered a partnership with A&E Networks to produce a wide range of culinary content. This collaboration involves creating “in the kitchen” shows and other food-related programming featuring Ray and other talented chefs. The partnership is set to span two years, during which Ray’s team will deliver numerous episodes across multiple platforms.
Ray elaborated on the challenge of balancing her podcast with these new commitments: “We have so many talents that we’re managing, and I have so many episodes to write. I want to. I would love to. We have to find the time to, is the problem.” This busy schedule reflects her dedication to expanding her brand and delivering quality content to her audience.
Additionally, Ray’s personal life plays a role in the podcast’s pause. She and her husband, John Cusimano, split their time between New York and Italy, which adds complexity to her production schedule. Balancing life between two countries while managing a growing media empire is no small feat.
Exciting New Projects and Future Plans
Despite the podcast’s current pause, Rachael Ray’s career is thriving with exciting new projects on the horizon. On October 16, A+E Networks announced an order for 110 new episodes of Ray’s programming, including the popular Meals in Minutes series. These episodes will focus on Ray’s approachable and comforting cooking style, appealing to a broad audience of food lovers.
Production for these new episodes is set to begin in the fall, with plans to air across the Home.Made.Nation lifestyle programming block on A&E and FYI in 2026. This expansion marks a significant milestone for Ray’s production company and underscores her influence in the culinary media space.
Reflecting on her podcast experience, Ray expressed how rewarding it was to engage in long-form conversations with guests she admires. The podcast allowed her to introduce listeners to new personalities and reconnect with longtime friends in a way that traditional TV formats did not permit. “I like introducing people to new people, people that are new to my life, but I also reintroduce them to people I already love and respect,” she shared.
The eight episodes released last year featured a diverse lineup of guests, including actor Billy Crudup, chef Jacques Pépin, and the late Anne Burrell, a close friend of Ray’s. These conversations offered fans a deeper look into the lives and careers of these celebrated figures, enriching the podcast’s appeal.
Balancing Creativity and Life: Rachael Ray’s Approach
Rachael Ray’s ability to juggle multiple projects while maintaining a personal life split between two continents is a testament to her work ethic and passion. She candidly acknowledges the difficulty in finding time for everything she wants to do, especially when it comes to creative endeavors like her podcast.
Her partnership with A&E Networks and the surge in production orders demonstrate that Ray is focusing on expanding her reach through various media channels. This strategic move allows her to connect with fans in new ways while continuing to build her brand.
Moreover, Ray’s commitment to producing content that resonates with audiences is evident in her approach to storytelling and cooking. Whether through television shows, podcasts, or digital content, she strives to create an inviting and relatable experience for her viewers and listeners.
Conclusion
Rachael Ray’s pause on releasing new episodes of I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead stems from her busy schedule and exciting new projects with Free Food Studios and A&E Networks. While fans eagerly await more episodes, Ray is focused on delivering fresh culinary content across multiple platforms and balancing her life between New York and Italy. Her dedication to quality programming and authentic storytelling ensures that when the podcast returns, it will be worth the wait.
If you’re a fan of Rachael Ray’s work, stay tuned for upcoming shows and new episodes that promise to bring her signature warmth and culinary expertise to your screens. Don’t miss out—subscribe to her channels and follow her journey for the latest updates!
