Despite High Expectations, Rachael Ray’s Podcast Fails to Crack the Top 250—What Went Wrong?

Rachael Ray’s much-anticipated podcast, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead, has failed to rank among the top 250 Apple Podcasts, despite its highly publicized launch. This development comes as fans continue to express worries about the celebrity chef’s well-being after recent public appearances raised questions about her health.

Podcast Struggles to Gain Traction

Ray, 56, debuted her podcast on October 22, promising deep conversations about ambition and drive. However, The U.S. Sun exclusively revealed that the show has yet to break into Apple Podcasts’ top 250, per data from Chartable.

While I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead managed to secure the 95th spot in the Arts category as of November 22, it fell significantly behind competing shows such as The Recipe with Kenji and Deb by Deb Perelman and J. Kenji López-Alt, which ranked 13th, and Be My Guest with Ina Garten, which landed in the 22nd spot. Meanwhile, in the Society & Culture section, Ray’s podcast did not rank at all.

Mixed Reception from Fans

Ray announced her podcast on October 14, describing it as a platform for discussing “what fuels people who love hard work.” Despite her enthusiasm, reception has been lukewarm.

“I feel at my best when I am pressed, when I am being my most productive,” she shared in the premiere episode. “That is why I have always said, ‘I’ll sleep when I’m dead.’”

The podcast has featured guests from various fields, including actors, chefs, and fitness trainers. Yet, its performance remains underwhelming, and some fans have raised concerns about Ray’s health rather than focusing on the content itself.

Health Concerns Escalate

In recent months, viewers have noted changes in Ray’s appearance and speech, sparking speculation about her well-being. Clips from her latest show, Rachael Ray in Tuscany, have particularly drawn attention, with some fans pointing out that she appeared to slur her words.

“What happened?” one fan questioned on Instagram. Another wrote, “This is concerning. Something is not right.” A third added, “I love you, but are you okay? I’m seriously concerned.”

Ray has not publicly addressed these concerns but has taken steps to limit comments on her social media posts. Despite the speculation, she continues to share cooking videos, including a recent shrimp and chorizo paella recipe. One follower commented under the post, “Hope you’re doing okay.”

A Homemaker at Heart

In an episode of her podcast, Ray opened up about her life at home with her husband, John Cusimano, in Lake Luzerne, New York.

“I am a homemaker. I love chores. I love being in the kitchen,” she shared, emphasizing her passion for everyday tasks. “I like making dinners, planning dinners, making lists.”

She also admitted to enjoying physical labor, such as carrying firewood, but revealed she had recently suffered multiple falls. “I haven’t been doing that in a while,” she admitted.

Fear of Time Running Out

On the November 12 episode, Ray revealed she wakes up at 4 a.m. every day.

“I’ve gotten worse as I’ve gotten older because I feel like time might be shorter, and I want to make the most of every minute,” she confessed.

She also spoke about how her dogs bring her comfort during difficult days, saying, “That unconditional love really gets you through dark days.”

Power of Attorney Raises Questions

In a separate revelation, The U.S. Sun reported that Ray filed for her husband to be granted power of attorney decades ago, a move that has resurfaced amid renewed speculation about her health.

The document, signed just weeks before their 2005 wedding, states: “These powers will continue to exist even after you become disabled or incompetent.”

Legal expert Adam Michael Sachs told The U.S. Sun that such a move is usually made for medical or financial security. “It is something that would be done if you are sick,” he explained.

What’s Next for Rachael Ray?

Despite the setbacks with her podcast and ongoing health rumors, Ray remains active in her culinary career, producing new recipes and hosting Meals in Minutes and Rachael Ray in Tuscany.

While she has not directly responded to fans’ concerns, her continued activity suggests she is not slowing down anytime soon. However, whether I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead can climb the podcast charts remains to be seen.