Fred Toucher addresses changes to morning show, reflects on his years with Rich
At the beginning of the show this morning, Fred Toucher addressed the significant changes and discussed the departure of his longtime co-host, Rich Shertenlieb, detailing their history together from their…

Fred Toucher and Rich Shertenlieb at their 10 year anniversary show at the Wilbur Theater
At the beginning of the show this morning, Fred Toucher addressed the significant changes and discussed the departure of his longtime co-host, Rich Shertenlieb, detailing their history together from their early radio days in Atlanta at 99X to their successful run in Boston, both at WBCN and 98.5 the Sports Hub. Fred explained the decision for Rich to leave, and the plans for the show moving forward, including finding a new co-host hopefully by the beginning of the new year. He expressed excitement about the future, highlighting the remaining team members' talent and.
Fred wishes Rich success in his future endeavors.
WATCH HERE:
Fred Toucher: Maybe something could have been done at the last minute. Maybe whatever issues they were having could have been rectified. But that's not happening now. Rich is not coming back. So I found that out. I got the call in the car. Now, when it became apparent that there were like some hurdles in his negotiation. I again don't know why. I've talked to management and some people around the industry about the future of this show, and I have to be honest with you, I'm extraordinarily excited right here in the room between Nick, John and Mike. There's a tremendous amount of talent still here. And Dan, there's a tremendous amount of talent because Dan's not in the room, so I have to mention him because he's behind the glass.
Fred Toucher: Will I ever talk to Rich again? Not soon. Just because that's the way it is. And that's fine. But, I begrudge Rich nothing. I'm very happy about the 17 years plus that we spent together. I couldn't have done it without him. And I hope he's got something on the horizon because I don't wish him any ill will. And he's very talented, and I'm sure he'll have a lot of success. But, I'm even more certain that this show, certainly over the next four plus years, is going to have a tremendous amount of success that I'm absolutely certain you're going to enjoy.
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Nick Gemelli is a Producer for the Toucher and Rich program and contributor for 985thesportshub.com. You can follow Nick at @NickGemelli on Twitter.
5 qualities Fred Toucher’s new co-host should have… According to CBS Boston’s Dan Roche
Dan Roche from CBS Boston is here to help Fred Toucher his new co-host for the morning show!

Dan Roche in-studio (credit: Nick Gemelli)
Two weeks ago, one of the hosts of the highly successful morning radio show "Toucher & Rich," on 98.5 The Sports Hub, Boston’s home for the New England Patriots, Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics, officially announced their decision to go their separate ways, with Rich Shertenlieb departing from 98.5 The Sports Hub.
Fred Toucher made the announcement on a Friday morning, underscoring the show's goal of securing a new co-host by the beginning of the new year.
As the quest for a replacement unfolds, speculation is rife regarding who will step into Shertenlieb's role alongside Fred Toucher. Jim Murray, previously considered a potential replacement, has already ruled out embracing the "miserable" morning hours and says he’s “comfortable and happy” as the third chair on highly successful afternoon show "Felger and Mazz."
Regardless of who assumes the position, CBS Boston's Dan Roche has outlined five qualities he believes the new co-host should possess.
1.) New co-host should be a kind human being

(Credit: Getty Image)
Being kind is crucial for the new co-host, creating a positive atmosphere between hosts and a friendly connection with listeners during the morning show. It sets the tone for a respectful working relationship and a genuinely welcoming broadcast.
2.) Sense of humor

casual businessman and woman talking and laughing in loft office (Getty Images)
a great sense of humor is essential for the new co-host, bringing laughter and enjoyment to the morning show. It ensures a lively and entertaining atmosphere, making the broadcast engaging for both hosts and listeners.
3.) Must like sports

A young man waits patiently to get into the baseball game. (Getty Images)
adding enthusiasm and knowledge to discussions on the morning show. It ensures a natural connection with the sports-focused context of the broadcast, making it more relatable and enjoyable for the audience.
4.) Understanding Fred
"Knowing Fred well is important for the new co-host, ensuring smooth communication and a strong working relationship during the morning show. It helps create a harmonious dynamic and contributes to the overall success of the broadcast."
5.) Loves Disney World

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL - FEBRUARY 03: In this handout photo provided by Disney Parks, Super Bowl XLVII MVP Malcolm Smith of the Seattle Seahawks participates in his parade at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort on February 3, 2014 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. A linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks, he helped to lead the team to a 43-8 victory over the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Smith is the first defensive player to appear in one of the iconic "I'm Going to Disney World!" commercials. (Photo by Matt Stroshane/Disney Parks via Getty Images)
"Loving Disney World is a key trait for the new co-host, adding a cheerful and relatable element to the morning show. It brings a positive and enjoyable vibe that resonates with both hosts and listeners."





