Sandra Smith, a respected figure at Fox Business Network, has built a reputation as one of the leading voices in financial news. With her deep roots in Chicago’s financial district, she’s spent her career immersed in the world of investments, stocks, and market fluctuations. Yet, Sandra’s journey from a trader to a prominent TV reporter has been as surprising as it has been rewarding.

Her remarkable career at Fox Business, which she joined in 2007, has been driven by her expertise and natural talent for financial reporting. But it was her transition from finance to TV news that became a defining moment in her career. As she continues to thrive in her role, Sandra has embraced a new chapter of her life—motherhood.

The Unexpected Evolution: From Trading Floors to TV Screens

Sandra’s career trajectory wasn’t always about the spotlight. Growing up with family members involved in finance, Sandra understood the importance of numbers from an early age. Her career began with a focus on trading reports and market analysis, but when she joined Bloomberg Television early on, her ability to communicate financial topics clearly helped set her apart. This led her to Fox Business, where she quickly became a fixture known for her sharp financial insight and straightforward reporting.

However, it wasn’t just her financial expertise that made Sandra a standout—it was also her knack for communicating complex topics in a relatable way. Her success on Fox Business was marked by her ability to break down complicated financial concepts for the everyday viewer.

Motherhood: A New Chapter of Joy and Challenges

While Sandra’s professional life flourished, her personal life took an exciting turn in 2020 when she welcomed her daughter, Cora, with her husband, John Conolly. Motherhood brought a new sense of fulfillment but also new challenges. Sandra quickly realized that balancing a high-pressure career at Fox Business with raising a newborn would require her to rethink her time management and work-life balance.

“Every time I walk into Cora’s room and see her face, it’s just like Christmas morning,” Sandra shares, clearly overwhelmed with love for her baby. “I never realized how much personality children could have at such a young age. It’s so fun to watch!”

But while motherhood brought joy, it also required Sandra to find a new routine that allowed her to excel at both work and family. “I wake up at 5 AM with the baby, conduct radio interviews, go into hair and makeup, submit the news topic, and report on-air the rest of the day,” Sandra explains. “But by the end of the day, when I walk in my house, mommy-mode kicks back in.”

Finding Balance in the Chaos: Google Calendar and “Me Time”

Sandra’s meticulous organization has become her greatest asset in managing her hectic schedule. She credits Google Calendar as her secret weapon to stay on track. “It is really challenging to be a working mom, and it helps if you are able to organize your schedule,” Sandra says. “I rely on it to stay on track. I share the calendar with John, and together, we make sure we’re on top of everything.”

Despite her busy schedule, Sandra has found ways to carve out small moments for herself—what she calls her “me time.” One of her favorite rituals is finding time in the middle of the night for a quick personal break. “After we’ve all gone to bed, I sometimes pop up for an hour or two just to do something for me—like clean the kitchen or read a book—and then go back to bed,” she explains. These brief moments of self-care have become crucial to maintaining her balance and recharging her energy.

Teamwork and Support from Her Husband

Sandra’s ability to excel in both her professional and personal lives wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support from her husband, John Conolly. The couple, married in 2010, shares a deep bond that has only strengthened over the years. Sandra credits John with being an exceptional partner in both parenting and life. “John is such a support to me and a true team player,” she says. “He has incredible patience and calmly walks our daughter up and down the hall when she’s fussy. Fatherhood has really made his qualities shine.”

John’s support has allowed Sandra to continue excelling in her demanding career while being present for their daughter. Sandra emphasizes that while she’s had to make adjustments along the way, she believes that women can successfully juggle both career and family, but it requires intention and asking for help. “I think as moms, we have a tendency to be really hard on ourselves, and we have this weird instinct to want to take on everything,” she says. “But, I truly believe we have an amazing ability to multi-task and can successfully manage both personal and professional lives – but you really have to want to do it. And, you have to delegate sometimes and ask for help.”

A Simple Message of Love

While Sandra’s work often involves complex financial analysis, the message she wants her daughter to take away is simple: unconditional love. “I want Cora to always remember the love we have for her,” Sandra shares. “It’s instantaneous and unconditional love.”

As Sandra continues to balance her career at Fox Business and the demands of motherhood, she embodies the strength and resilience of women who thrive in both worlds. Her ability to maintain her career while nurturing her family is a testament to her determination, and her story serves as an inspiration to many working mothers. Sandra Smith shows the world that it is indeed possible to excel in both career and motherhood with love, support, and dedication.