From Humble Beginnings to Fox News Stardom: How Sandra Smith’s Unexpected Career Path Led Her to the Top

Sandra Smith may be one of Fox News’ most recognizable faces today, but her journey to television stardom was anything but conventional. Before stepping into the spotlight, Smith’s career took surprising turns that ultimately shaped her rise to prominence. From an unexpected start in finance to becoming a respected journalist, her path was filled with challenges, determination, and defining moments that set her apart in the news industry. So how did she go from Wall Street to one of the biggest names in cable news? Dive into her inspiring story and see how it all began.

The Fox News Channel debuted “Outnumbered,” a new midday panel show, last week (April 28). A regular on the panel: Sandra Smith, a veteran Fox Business Network correspondent.

Before joining the Fox networks (where she has appeared as a reporter on shows hosted by Don Imus, Greg Gutfeld and Sean Hannity, among others), Smith worked for Bloomberg Television, Terra Nova Institutional, Hermitage Capital and Aegis Capital.

Before launching her career, Smith ran intercollegiate track and cross-country at LSU, to where the Chicago-area native transferred after initially attending Illinois State University.

The format of “Outnumbered” — reportedly the brainchild of Roger Ailes, Fox News chairman and chief executive — places a rotating male into an ensemble of four female panelists. In addition to Smith, the regular panelists include Fox News and/or Fox Business personalities Harris Faulkner, Kimberly Guilfoyle, Andrea Tantaros, Jedediah Bila, Katie Pavlich and Kirsten Powers.

The hour-long show debuted April 28 and airs in New Orleans at 11 a.m.

Here’s an edited email Q&A with Smith:

Q: What advice would you give a dude coming on “Outnumbered?”

A: Be yourself and don’t be afraid to disagree with us. We want your perspective.

What did you think of the show’s format when it was proposed to you? What were your expectations for the show? How is it working out so far? Any surprise topics so far? What kind of reaction have you heard about the new show, either from friends, family or on social media

I loved it ! I knew this was an opportunity to tackle the news in a different way. We have gotten a lot of positive feedback on the show so far. Twitter and Facebook have lit up on several occasions. From Tucker Carlson’s comments on a teacher/student lap dance to a recent debate on whether cheerleading should be considered a sport with our #oneluckyguy Brian Kilmeade.

Describe your day now that you’re doing this show. How much prep time? What news sources are on your day-to-day menu?

Right now, my day starts early pitching multiple stories for the new show. Sports, business, economy, politics, entertainment, gender and social issues… they’re all fair game. I head into hair and makeup early, do several hits on “Opening Bell with Maria Bartiromo” on Fox Business, and then I devote my time solely to preparing for the new show, “Outnumbered” on Fox News. Prepping and researching various stories, talking to producers, quick touch-up, and then usually a live tease on “Happening Now” around 11:45 a.m. (Eastern Time) to let everyone know what’s coming up on the show. Then… the show begins at noon (Eastern). It flies by. We have a great time.

What are your best memories of LSU and Baton Rouge?

The oak trees, the quad, The Chimes, crawfish season, football games, the wonderful people and practicing with my track team morning and afternoon, six days a week.

Is there an LSU class or a field of study you still call on in your work?

Calculus. I LOVED calculus. I eventually became a tutor for other student athletes. I truly love math and I had great teachers there who truly inspired me.

Which LSU players do you have going in the first round of your mock draft?

Forgive me. I have been launching a new show on Fox News… I am a bit out-of-it when it comes to the draft! Will study-up and get back to you. Always want our players to do well! Geaux Tigers!

What are the three pieces of investment advice you would give a 56-year-old TV columnist who’s starting to worry about retirement penury?

Set realistic goals, take advantage of catch-up contributions, and seek the advice of a financial planner.

Let’s say I’m on the heavy side with Apple stock. Should I get out?

I don’t make stock recommendations. Good luck!

Same question, but substitute Netflix.

Same answer.

Speaking of which, have you binge-watched any TV? If so, which shows?

I once watched three “Downton Abbey” shows in a row.

Are there any regular TV series you never miss?

I’ve been known to like “The Voice.”

I saw an interview from 2012 where you talk about not being on Twitter. Has that changed? If not, why? If so, why?

I started using Twitter a couple of months ago. @SandraSmithFOX. I was hesitant because I don’t like to mix my personal life with my professional life. I have found it to be a wonderful promotional tool for my work and my shows. Follow me!

Who wins in a mile run, Greg Gutfield or Sean Hannity? And how far behind you would they be?

Sean Hannity. Have you seen him throw a football? He’s an athlete. Then again, now that I think about it, Greg’s usually in sneakers. He’s full of surprises. I’d beat them both by just enough to let them think they had a chance.