For decades, Kristi Lee was the undisputed "voice of reason" on the nationally syndicated radio phenomenon, *The Bob & Tom Show*. Her distinctive voice and straight-laced delivery of the news, often serving as the perfect foil to the show's comedic chaos, cemented her status as a radio icon. While many fans search for "Christy Lee Bob & Tom," the correct spelling is Kristi Lee, and her story—from her 27-year tenure to her surprising 2016 exit—is a fascinating look at the evolution of one of America's most popular morning programs.
As of December 17, 2025, Kristi Lee continues to shape her own narrative, stepping out from behind the news desk to build a new media empire focused on in-depth interviews and lifestyle content. This article provides the most up-to-date information on her career, her life after the show, and a deep dive into the woman who spent nearly three decades delivering the news to millions of listeners.
Kristi Lee: Complete Radio Personality Biography & Profile
Kristi Lee, born Theresa Ritz, built a legendary career in radio, primarily known for her long-running role on *The Bob & Tom Show*. She was not just a news director; she was an essential cast member whose presence was integral to the show's dynamic. Her professional journey began in her hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana, where the show is based.
- Full Name: Theresa Ritz
- Known As: Kristi Lee
- Date of Birth: July 17, 1960
- Current Age (as of Dec 2025): 65 years old
- Hometown: Indianapolis, Indiana
- Primary Role on *The Bob & Tom Show*: News Director and Co-Host
- Tenure with *The Bob & Tom Show*: 1989 – January 2016 (Approximately 27 years)
- Signature Role: The "Den Mother" or "Straight Woman" to the comedic antics of Bob Kevoian and Tom Griswold.
- Post-*Bob & Tom* Project: Host of the *Kristi Lee Uninterrupted* podcast.
- Marital Status: Private/Divorced (previously married to Paul Klipsch).
The Real Reason Kristi Lee Left The Bob & Tom Show in 2016
Kristi Lee's departure from the nationally syndicated radio program in January 2016 sent shockwaves through the loyal fanbase, many of whom had listened to her voice every morning for decades. Her exit followed that of co-founder Bob Kevoian, who retired in late 2015, marking a significant shift in the show's core cast.
The official statement from Lee indicated that she had "decided to pursue new opportunities" after nearly 28 years with the program. While the specific, intimate details of the decision remain private, her move was widely interpreted as a desire to take control of her own content and explore a different facet of her broadcasting career. The timing, shortly after Kevoian’s retirement, suggested it was a natural point for a major life and career change. She had often described her role on the show as that of a den mother, playing the straight role to the comedians. Stepping away allowed her to shed that specific persona and launch her own, more personal project.
The transition was a bold move from traditional broadcast radio to the burgeoning world of digital media and podcasting. This decision highlighted a growing trend among veteran media personalities to seek platforms where they have complete editorial freedom, moving away from the constraints of corporate-owned radio stations like WFBQ-FM, where the show originated.
Kristi Lee Uninterrupted: Her Career in the Digital Age
The "new opportunities" Kristi Lee spoke of immediately materialized in the form of her own lifestyle podcast, *Kristi Lee Uninterrupted*. This project is the centerpiece of her post-*Bob & Tom* career and has allowed her to connect with her audience in a more personal and in-depth manner. The podcast's success demonstrates her enduring popularity and ability to adapt to the changing media landscape.
The *Kristi Lee Uninterrupted* podcast is a lifestyle podcast that deviates significantly from the rapid-fire news segments she delivered on the morning show. Instead, it features long-form interviews with a diverse array of guests, including celebrities, authors, experts, and everyday people with unique stories. The format allows her to delve into topics with a depth that was not possible during her five-minute news segments on the syndicated show.
The podcast has amassed over 100 episodes and is available on major platforms like iHeart and Apple Podcasts. This sustained output, years after her departure, proves that her career is far from over. She has effectively transitioned from being a co-host on a major radio show to becoming a successful independent content creator and digital entrepreneur. Her work is a prime example of how established media figures can leverage their brand in the modern podcast industry.
Kristi Lee’s Legacy and Influence on Syndicated Morning Radio
Kristi Lee's 27-year tenure with *The Bob & Tom Show* is a remarkable feat in the volatile world of morning radio. Her role was critical to the show's success, which reached millions of listeners across hundreds of radio affiliates nationwide. The show, which began in the 1980s, is considered a pioneer in the syndicated comedy radio format.
Her contribution extended beyond simply reading the news. She was the anchor who kept the show grounded, often providing a necessary counterpoint to the outrageous humor of Tom Griswold, Bob Kevoian, and other cast members like Chick McGee. This dynamic, where the news director also serves as a comedic personality, became a template for many other morning shows that followed.
Topical Authority Entities & LSI Keywords:
Her long career is intertwined with the history of the show and its key figures. The following entities are essential to understanding her professional world:
- Bob Kevoian (Co-founder)
- Tom Griswold (Co-founder)
- Chick McGee (Longtime Co-host)
- Dean Metcalf (Show Producer)
- WFBQ-FM (Flagship Station)
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Frequent topic/location)
- Syndicated Radio (Distribution model)
- iHeartMedia (Podcast Platform)
- The Bob & Tom Show (The primary entity)
- Q95 (Radio station alias)
- News Director (Her official role)
- Lifestyle Podcast (Her current format)
- Stand-up Comedy (Frequent show guests)
- Digital Media (Her current industry)
- Theresa Ritz (Her birth name)
- Kristi Lee Uninterrupted (Her current project)
- Broadcast Radio (Her former industry)
- Morning Zoo (A common radio format term)
- The Bob & Tom Comedy Tour (Related show entity)
- Indianapolis, Indiana (Show origin)
Lee's ability to transition from a decades-long career in a traditional medium to becoming a successful podcaster serves as a powerful inspiration for other broadcasting professionals. She proved that a strong, established brand and a genuine connection with an audience can transcend the platform, allowing her to continue her work "uninterrupted."
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