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The Bob & Tom Show’s Unsung Hero: 5 Shocking Facts About Christie Lee (A.K.A. Kristi Lee)

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The name "Christie Lee" is a common search term for fans of the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom Show, but it often leads to a deeper dive into one of the program's most beloved and enduring personalities: Kristi Lee. As of the current date in December 2025, Kristi Lee remains an integral part of the show’s dynamic, having cemented her role as the news director and co-host for decades. Her career is a fascinating blend of pioneering broadcast work, hilarious on-air moments, and a recent, temporary departure that stunned the show’s massive audience, only to be followed by a triumphant return.

This article cuts through the confusion, providing a definitive look at the life and career of the woman who is the "voice of reason" on one of America’s most popular morning radio programs. From her early days as a female television engineer to her current projects, including her own podcast, we explore the five most compelling facts and recent updates about Kristi Lee, the true anchor of the Bob & Tom Show ensemble.

Kristi Lee: Complete Broadcast Pioneer Biography

While the search term "Christie Lee" is often used, the celebrated co-host and news director’s name is officially Kristi Lee. Her career is marked by groundbreaking achievements in a male-dominated industry, leading to her recognition as an Indiana broadcast pioneer. Her on-air persona provides a crucial counterbalance to the antics of Tom Griswold, Chick McGee, and the show’s ensemble of comedians and characters like Donnie Baker and Scott Potasnik.

  • Real Name: Theresa Ritz
  • Date of Birth: July 17, 1960
  • Place of Birth: Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
  • Primary Role: News Director and Co-Host of The Bob & Tom Show
  • Career Start: Began in broadcasting as one of the first female television engineers in the country.
  • Bob & Tom Tenure: Joined the show in the mid-1980s, becoming a core member of the nationally syndicated program.
  • Notable Achievements: Honored as an Indiana broadcast pioneer in 2022.
  • Current Projects (2025): Co-hosts the podcast Worth Your Time! with Dr. Rob Shumaker.
  • Key On-Air Persona: Often referred to as the "voice of reason" or the show's "News Desk," responsible for delivering newscasts and engaging in comedy bits.

1. The Shocking Departure and Triumphant Return

One of the most significant and recent events in Kristi Lee’s career was her brief departure from the show. After decades on the air, she announced in December of a previous year that she would be leaving to "pursue new opportunities," a move that sent shockwaves through the loyal fanbase.

However, the separation was short-lived. In a major news announcement, Kristi Lee rejoined The Bob & Tom Show as a regular cast member just seven months later. Her return was celebrated by co-hosts Tom Griswold and Chick McGee, and it reassured listeners who had missed her voice and perspective. This temporary hiatus and subsequent return is a testament to her essential role in the show's chemistry and success, proving that the classic lineup is what the audience truly craves.

2. Her New Podcast: "Worth Your Time!" with Dr. Rob Shumaker

Leveraging her time away and her continued presence on the show, Kristi Lee launched a new, successful venture that provides a fascinating contrast to her comedy-focused radio work. She co-hosts the podcast Worth Your Time! with Dr. Rob Shumaker, the President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo.

The podcast is a deep dive into the lives of extraordinary individuals from all walks of life, exploring their hearts and minds. This project showcases a different side of Kristi Lee—one focused on thoughtful, in-depth interviews and meaningful conversations, moving beyond the rapid-fire humor and on-air antics of the morning show. It has become a key part of her current professional portfolio, demonstrating her versatility as a media personality and interviewer.

3. The "Christie Lee" vs. "Kristi Lee" Name Confusion

The search query "Christie Lee on Bob and Tom" highlights a persistent confusion among fans. The show’s main co-host is Kristi Lee. However, the show frequently features a parade of guest comedians, and a separate comedian named Christie Lee (often spelled Cristy Lee or Christy Lee in other contexts, such as the automotive industry) has appeared on the program.

When Comedian Christie Lee joins the show, she discusses humor, comedy, and entertainment, often providing witty jokes and humorous takes on life and love, fitting the show's stand-up comedy focus. However, for the vast majority of listeners and for the show’s core identity, the name "Lee" is synonymous with the co-host, Kristi Lee, who has spent decades sitting at the news desk, responsible for delivering the daily newscasts and serving as the straight-woman to the show’s comedic chaos.

4. Kristi Lee’s Role as a Broadcast Pioneer and Female Voice

Kristi Lee’s impact on the industry extends far beyond her popular radio show. She is recognized as a pioneer, having been one of the first female television engineers in the country before transitioning to radio. This technical background gave her a unique perspective in the male-dominated world of broadcasting.

On the Bob & Tom Show, she is not merely a news reader; she is the essential "National Female Voice" and the primary anchor for current events and news segments. Her presence is crucial, acting as the show's moral compass and providing a relatable, often sarcastic, female viewpoint on the outrageous discussions and comedy bits. She is credited with being the "voice of reason" that keeps the show grounded amidst the absurdity, a dynamic that has been key to the show’s national success and longevity.

5. Her Unscripted Comedy Moments and Famous Bits

Despite her role as news director, Kristi Lee is an active participant in the show's comedy. Her interactions with the cast, particularly with Chick McGee (who often plays her fictional husband in hilarious bits) and Tom Griswold, generate some of the show's most memorable content.

One of the most famous running gags revolves around her personal life, including her vacations (like calling in from Italy) and her engagement announcements, which the guys on the show inevitably handle with a complete lack of decorum. Other memorable, unscripted moments include the time she nearly threw up on the air, demonstrating the raw, unpredictable nature of live comedy radio. These moments, where her professional composure breaks, are what endear her to millions of listeners, turning the news director into an accidental comedy star.

The Enduring Legacy of Kristi Lee on WFBQ-FM

The longevity of The Bob & Tom Show, which is syndicated across the country, is a testament to the chemistry of its core cast. Kristi Lee, whether you search for her as "Christie Lee" or by her correct name, is a fundamental pillar of that success. From her early days as a technical pioneer to her current status as a co-host and podcaster, her ability to deliver serious news, engage in spicy comedy, and keep the main hosts in check has made her a genuine radio icon. Her recent projects and her ongoing work with the show ensure her voice will continue to be a staple of morning radio for years to come.

christie lee on bob and tom
christie lee on bob and tom

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