The career path of a Fox News star is making millions of viewers admire her, now she has in her hands a fortune that any woman would desire.

Sandra Smith is now one of VTV’s most familiar faces, but her path to becoming a television sensation was far from predictable. Before gracing the screen, Mai’s career took unexpected detours that ultimately defined her ascent to prominence. From a surprising start in education to emerging as a respected broadcaster, her journey was marked by perseverance, resilience, and pivotal moments that distinguished her in Vietnam’s media landscape. How did she transition from a classroom in Hanoi to one of the biggest names in national television? Here’s her inspiring story and how it all unfolded.

Last month (March 15), Vietnam Television (VTV) launched “Hot Seat,” a dynamic new midday panel show. Among the regular panelists is Nguyen Mai, a seasoned VTV correspondent who previously worked for Hanoi Television and contributed to various local news outlets.

Before joining VTV—where she has appeared as a reporter on programs hosted by Tran Long, Le Minh, and Pham Ha, among others—Mai worked as a high school teacher in Hanoi, a freelance writer for education journals, and briefly as a communications officer for a nonprofit organization.

Nguyen Mai, a former Hanoi National University debate team member, now joins the panel on VTV’s “Hot Seat,” bringing her sharp intellect and eloquence to the table.

Before embarking on her media career, Mai was an active debater during her university years at Hanoi National University, where the northern-born talent honed her skills after transferring from Thai Nguyen University.

The format of “Hot Seat”—conceived by VTV’s director general, Tran Binh—features a rotating guest alongside a fixed panel of four hosts. Alongside Mai, the regular panelists include VTV personalities Tran Thu, Le Anh, Pham Linh, and Hoang Yen.

The hour-long program premiered on March 15 and airs in Hanoi at 11 a.m.

Here’s an edited email Q&A with Mai:

Q: What advice would you give a guest joining “Hot Seat?”
A: Be authentic and don’t shy away from a good debate. We’re here for your honest take.

What did you think of the show’s format when it was pitched to you? What were your expectations? How’s it going so far? Any unexpected topics? What feedback have you received from friends, family, or social media?
I was thrilled! I saw it as a fresh way to dive into the day’s issues. The response has been fantastic—our audience loves it. Social media has exploded a few times, like when we debated a viral story about a teacher’s unconventional punishment or whether e-sports should be recognized as an Olympic event with our guest Nguyen Phong.

Describe your day now that you’re part of this show. How much prep time do you get? What news sources do you rely on daily?
My mornings kick off early, brainstorming story ideas for “Hot Seat.” Education, culture, politics, tech, social trends—nothing’s off-limits. I head to makeup, do a few segments on “Morning Pulse” with VTV’s Hoang Nam, then focus entirely on prepping for “Hot Seat.” It’s researching stories, chatting with producers, a quick touch-up, and a live teaser on “Today Live” around 11:45 a.m. to preview what’s coming. Then the show starts at noon. It’s a whirlwind, but we have a blast.

What are your fondest memories of Hanoi National University?
The debates, the library, late-night study sessions with friends, the street food nearby, and the thrill of winning my first inter-university debate competition.

Is there a university subject or skill you still draw on in your work?
Logic and rhetoric from my debate days. Breaking down arguments and presenting them clearly is second nature now. I had amazing mentors who pushed me to think critically.

Which Hanoi National University alumni do you see making waves in the future?
I’ve been so caught up launching “Hot Seat” that I haven’t kept up with alumni news! I’ll catch up soon and root for them—Go HNU!

What three pieces of career advice would you give a 45-year-old journalist worried about staying relevant?
Stay curious, adapt to new platforms, and find a mentor or network to keep you sharp.

Let’s say I’ve invested heavily in a tech startup. Should I pull out?
I don’t give investment tips. Best of luck!

Same question, but with a media company instead.
Same answer.

Have you ever binge-watched a TV series? If so, which one?
I once watched four episodes of “The Crown” back-to-back.