In this episode of Behind the Shield, we meet Laxmi Pochincherla, Senior Program Manager at Regence BlueShield, honored as a Community Hero for the extraordinary grit she brings to her work every day.

Laxmi leads the strategy and execution of clinical programs that help ensure members get timely access to effective, high-quality healthcare. She partners across her organization on complex initiatives designed to improve member experiences, strengthen health outcomes, and support affordable care.

As part of her Behind the Shield feature, Laxmi got to meet Sounders FC defender Nouhou Tolo, who also opened up about his own life behind the shield. Together, their stories capture what the series is all about: everyday people showing extraordinary determination, on and off the pitch.