Sandra Smith’s Unlikely Journey to Becoming a Fox News Star: From LSU Track to Outnumbered Panelist

Sandra Smith, one of Fox News’ most beloved personalities, had an unexpected path to stardom. Her story is a true testament to how unique beginnings can lead to even more remarkable journeys. Known for her wit and sharp analysis, Smith is a seasoned Fox Business Network correspondent and a regular on the hit show Outnumbered. But her rise to fame didn’t happen overnight—it was shaped by an unlikely start, a series of unexpected turns, and a true passion for the world of news.

The Path That Led Sandra Smith to Fox News

Before her role at Fox, Smith’s career began far from the media spotlight. After transferring from Illinois State University, she became a standout track and cross-country athlete at Louisiana State University (LSU). Running for LSU’s team set the foundation for her discipline, resilience, and ambition—the same qualities she would later apply in her career as a journalist.

In a Q&A, Smith fondly recalled her time at LSU, mentioning the oaks, the quad, the vibrant football games, and the iconic crawfish season. Her love for LSU is still evident, especially when she enthusiastically supports the Tigers during mock drafts or sports discussions.

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Her academic journey at LSU wasn’t all about athletics, though—Smith also developed a passion for calculus, becoming a tutor for other student-athletes. Little did she know, these academic skills and work ethic would set the stage for her eventual career in the media world.

From Bloomberg to Fox: The Big Leap

After college, Smith worked for Bloomberg Television, Terra Nova Institutional, Hermitage Capital, and Aegis Capital. It was during this time that she honed her skills as a reporter, before her big break with Fox Business. Smith’s rise on the Fox networks is a story of hard work and determination. She became a familiar face on The Five and Gutfeld! before joining the panel of the hit show Outnumbered, where she now shares her insights alongside other dynamic personalities.

The format of Outnumbered—where a male guest joins four female panelists—has been described as the brainchild of Fox News’ former Chairman, Roger Ailes. The show debuted in April 2025, and Smith quickly became a favorite for viewers. Her natural ability to provide strong, nuanced opinions made her a valuable asset to the show, and she continues to attract a loyal fan base.

A Day in the Life of Sandra Smith

Smith’s days are packed with preparation and research. In an email Q&A, she described her typical routine, which includes pitching multiple story ideas for Outnumbered, and doing hits on Fox Business’ Opening Bell with Maria Bartiromo. After that, it’s time for hair and makeup, followed by a quick touch-up and live tease for the upcoming show.

Her daily news sources span a wide array of topics—from sports and business to politics, social issues, and entertainment. As Smith explained, her day revolves around staying informed, engaging with producers, and always being prepared for the lively debates that unfold during Outnumbered.

A Glimpse Into Her Personal Life

Despite her rising fame, Sandra Smith is also known for her grounded and genuine nature. When asked about her family life, she shared that her husband, real estate developer Nicholas Riccio, is a private person who doesn’t have social media. She respects his privacy, but still couldn’t help but gush about him being her “number one fan, the best dad, and just the best man I’ve ever met.”

Smith’s personal life remains largely out of the public eye, but her openness about her experiences on Outnumbered and Fox News makes her one of the most relatable anchors on television.

Sandra Smith’s Social Media and a Sneak Peek into Her TV Preferences

Though Smith was initially hesitant to join Twitter, she has embraced the platform as a way to connect with her fans and promote her work. Her Twitter handle (@SandraSmithFOX) has quickly gained a following, as viewers appreciate her direct, no-nonsense approach to sharing updates and insights.

In terms of TV shows, Smith has a few guilty pleasures. She’s an avid fan of The Voice, and she’s not afraid to admit she once watched three episodes of Downton Abbey in a row. But when it comes to competitive events, there’s no doubt Smith would beat her colleagues Greg Gutfeld and Sean Hannity in a mile race—though she’s quick to say she’d let them think they had a chance.

The Future of Sandra Smith

With her impeccable work ethic, quick wit, and ability to hold her ground in a male-dominated industry, Sandra Smith’s journey to Fox News stardom is a testament to her unwavering determination. As she continues to evolve in her role on Outnumbered, fans can expect more insightful commentary and captivating discussions from this rising star.

From LSU track star to political and business expert, Sandra Smith has become one of the most respected voices in media, and her story is far from over.