Rachael Ray Discusses Podcast Hiatus and New Projects

Rachael Ray opens up about why fans haven’t seen new episodes of her podcast and what’s been keeping her busy.

Podcast Pause Explained

Renowned cook and television personality Rachael Ray, 57, is taking a moment to discuss the pause on her podcast, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead. The show began in October 2024 and captured the attention of fans with its eight episodes featuring engaging celebrity interviews.

Speaking at the New York City Wine & Food Festival’s Blue Moon Burger Bash 2.0 on October 17, Ray shared updates with PEOPLE regarding the return of her podcast.

“I haven’t decided,” she tells PEOPLE. “I got such a huge order for new shows with my company, Free Food.”

Busy Times with Free Food Studios

Back in 2024, Ray’s production company, Free Food Studios, teamed up with A&E Networks to deliver dynamic kitchen content, promising fresh shows from Ray and other culinary stars over the span of two years.

“We have so many talents that we’re managing,” Ray commented. “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.”

Life remains hectic as Ray divides her time between homes in New York and Italy alongside her husband of 20 years, John Cusimano.

New Ventures Ahead

On October 16, A+E announced an order for 110 new episodes of Ray’s upcoming programming, such as Meals in Minutes. These new episodes are set to highlight Ray’s signature comforting cooking style and are slated to air on the Home.Made.Nation lifestyle block across A&E and FYI platforms starting in 2026.

Reflecting on Podcasting

Ray previously spoke to PEOPLE at the 2025 South Beach Wine & Food Festival about the fulfilling nature of her podcast. Last year’s eight-episode run included inspiring conversations with celebrated figures like actor Billy Crudup, culinary legend Jacques Pépin, and Ray’s dear late friend Anne Burrell.

“I never had the format on daytime to do long format with people I truly respect and care about,” Ray noted, comparing her podcasting experience to her TV work.

She continued, “I like introducing people to new people, people that are new to my life, but I also reintroducing them to people I already love and respect, and being able to expand and expound on what I wish I had the time to do in formats I couldn’t do it in before.”

Ray expressed enjoyment at understanding her guests more deeply, embracing the chance to connect beyond brief TV show slots.

“I had people on that are celebrated actors and people that I have known for a real long time, but that I never got to spend more than four or five minutes with,” she added. “It’s amazing.”

Reporting based on the original article; quotes reproduced verbatim.