On Marriage, Part II: Ali Velshi and Lori Wachs
In an engaging conversation, Ali Velshi, a prominent host at Al Jazeera America, and his wife Lori Wachs, president of Cross Ledge Investments, unveil the complexities and rewards of their unconventional yet deeply fulfilling marriage. Having been married for over five years, they offer insights into how they navigate their busy professional lives while maintaining a robust and romantic connection.
Living Apart and Staying Close

Ali’s career is demanding, often requiring him to travel frequently between his residence in Bryn Mawr and New York City, where he hosts his show. However, the couple prioritizes spending quality time together on weekends, transforming these days into special “date nights.” This unique arrangement not only keeps the spark alive but also fosters anticipation in their relationship, with Ali expressing the joy he experiences every time he returns home, making their time together feel all the more special.
The Communication Challenge
Effective communication is a cornerstone of Ali and Lori’s relationship. To stay connected despite their physical distance during the week, they have implemented strategies that ensure they remain emotionally close. Utilizing shared calendars to schedule their time, they facilitate meaningful interactions, which includes frequent phone calls and messages to update each other on their daily activities. This intentional communication helps bridge the gap caused by their busy schedules, maintaining a sense of unity amid the chaos of their lives.
Balancing Family and Romance
Lori brings another layer of complexity to their marriage by being a mother of two from her previous marriage. Balancing her responsibilities as a parent with her relationship with Ali has its challenges. To navigate this, they have established specific boundaries during weekends that prioritize their time together, allowing for a blend of social activities and quiet evenings in. This strategy not only nurtures their relationship but also instills a sense of harmony in her family life, ultimately enriching their bond.
Finding Joy in the Everyday

Both Ali and Lori articulate a profound appreciation for their partnership, emphasizing the importance of expressing gratitude toward one another. This acknowledgment strengthens their relationship, with each affirming their happiness regularly. They often reflect on the joy they find in shared experiences, creating lasting memories together, even amid the hustle of their individual commitments. Embracing the beauty of companionship, they reveal that love can thrive, showcasing the intersections of career, family, and romance.
As they continue to explore the dynamics of their relationship, Ali and Lori demonstrate that valuing their time together fosters a balance that works for them. Their journey serves as a testament to how love can flourish, even in the busiest of lives, highlighting the transformative power of commitment.