The Bridge 105.5 and Richard Todd: Connecting With The Community

In a way, the connection that morning drivetime host Richard Todd of 105.5 The Bridge has with his audience reflects the overall mantra of the radio station, chosen as the Best Radio Station by readers of Mount Pleasant Magazine.

“Richard fits the lifestyle of the station and the Charleston area,” said Paul Smith, the station’s general manager. “He’s smart, genuine and pays attention to the world around him. He has so much credibility and connection with his audience built up through his 30 some years in Charleston radio. He’s the unofficial mayor of Charleston.”

Indeed, Todd’s voice is as much a part of the auditory fabric of Charleston area life as the ocean waves that lap against the The Battery walls, whether introducing the unique blend of music The Bridge is known for or chatting with listeners and guests about daily topics.

“The Bridge had a strong tie with the public before I joined the team,” said Todd, who returned to the airwaves after a 17-year hiatus to raise his son following his wife Mary’s passing. “It’s the station of choice for great music and when the offer came to host the morning drive time show, it was too good to pass up. My son is now 17, a senior at Wando High School and doing great. I felt it was the right time to come back to work.”

Todd resigned from Cumulus News/Talk 1250 WTMA Charleston in 2012, and prior to his eight-year run at WTMA, he worked mornings at other Charleston stations, including Coast 92.5 WCSQ, 94.3 WSC and 96 Wave WAVF.

Todd shared that The Bridge is unique because it “smashes” together the best of talk and music — all of which makes the morning commute for Charleston area residents that much more palatable. “You can find world and national news on many other stations. But here we talk about Charleston area issues and keep it local. That is a responsibility we don’t take lightly.”

He added, “I’m so flattered and appreciative that the listeners have chosen me and the station as their favorite radio station to listen to. When you get up at four in the morning you had better like what you do, and I really enjoy finding ways to create something unique for our audience and am honored that people acknowledge that.”

Smith, who, like Todd, is a resident of Mount Pleasant, noted that radio, incidentally, is thriving in the age of the internet, smartphones and social media, and is proud of the strong rapport The Bridge maintains with its audience — a factor that has been its calling card since its inception.

“People have relationships with their favorite radio station and the closer the connection you can establish with your listeners the better,” said Smith. I think we personify that. Whether it is our on-air talent, our advertising team and our community outreach efforts, we are all about being connected to our audience and the community we serve.”

To listen to The Bridge, tune in to 105.5 or visit 1055thebridge.com.

By John Torsiello