Rachael Ray Gets Real About Marriage: “We Allow Each Other To Be Open To Different Worlds”
In her latest podcast episode, Rachael Ray gave fans a rare peek into her 18-year marriage with John Cusimano, revealing just how their differences make their partnership thrive. Ray and Cusimano may come from different worlds — she’s a chef and TV personality, he’s a lawyer and musician — but, according to Rachael, that contrast is the secret ingredient to their relationship.
The 56-year-old chef opened up about her marriage on her new podcast, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead, speaking with guest Jacques Pépin, who shared memories of his late wife Gloria. Jacques’ stories struck a chord with Rachael, who felt the same connection with her own husband, saying they “brought something to each other.”
John’s legal and musical skills balance her work, even though, as Rachel joked, she “hates reading legal documents.”
Rachael and John married in Italy in 2005 and even renewed their vows a decade later at the same Tuscan castle. She credits him as being “essential” to her life and career, especially when it comes to their shared commitment to community and helping others. “It was very important to me that I marry him because I thought this person could be a true partner in what I believe in and helping people and building not a business, but a community,” she said. For Rachael, building a life with John is about creating not just a business but a community.
In a lighter moment, Rachael admitted she and John have their fair share of intense arguments —an approach she actually prefers. “John and I don’t calm it down ever. We have huge screaming matches all the time, but I think that’s healthy. I really do. And I don’t trust people that are too quiet,” she told guest Jenny Mollen.
Rachael’s podcast, launched in October, has become a platform for her to share personal insights and candid thoughts about marriage, success, and the people who have shaped her life. She feels “wildly lucky” to have a partner who understands and respects her need for space, even as they work closely together to build a life and business.
Reflecting on Gloria’s role in Jacques life, Rachael related deeply to the idea of a partner who offers grounding and support. “I wouldn’t be who I am without Gloria,” Jacques shared, adding that she made it possible for him to pursue his passion by handling the things he didn’t, like finances and household logistics.
