Season 2, Episode 5: Dr. Lakshmi Kode Sammarco- The Reds and the Coroner

We Love Our Team

In this episode, Dr. Lakshmi Sammarco, the Hamilton County Coroner, shares her inspiring journey from India to the United States, her experiences growing up in Cincinnati, and her love for the Cincinnati Reds. She discusses her early memories of baseball, the cultural differences between cricket and baseball, and her favorite moments in Reds history, including her attendance at Pete Rose's record-breaking game.
Dr. Sammarco also highlights the importance of community and family support in her life and career, and her involvement with the Wright Society, which connects fans with baseball legends. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted word association game featuring Reds legends and a discussion on maintaining enthusiasm for the team despite challenging seasons.

Takeaways

• Dr. Samarko is the first female coroner in Hamilton County.
• She has a deep connection to her Indian roots and family traditions.
• Her first experience with baseball was at a Reds game with her father.
• Cricket and baseball share some similarities but are fundamentally different sports.
• Attending Pete Rose's record-breaking game was a memorable experience for her.
• The Wright Society offers intimate experiences with baseball legends.
• Women in sports have made significant strides over the years.
• Dr. Samarko's children are also passionate Reds fans.
• Maintaining enthusiasm for the Reds is about celebrating the team's history and talent.
• Community support is vital for both personal and professional success.

Sound Bites

• "I was the youngest student in my class."
• "I wanted my children to have my parents nearby."
• "I remember going to the game and sitting in the nosebleed section."