Dr. Natalie Strand

Dr. Natalie Strand is a physician, advocate, and public figure whose career bridges the fields of medicine and popular culture. Strand majored in molecular and cellular biology at the University of Arizona and pursued further studies at Oxford University and the American Institute in France before attending Mayo Clinic Medical School, where she conducted research on the human brain and Alzheimer's disease.

Strand completed a residency in anesthesiology at UCLA Medical Center, followed by a fellowship in interventional pain management at Mayo Clinic. Her research has focused on the use of electricity to treat pain, spinal cord implants, injection therapies, and medication management. Strand serves as the Director of Pain Research and the Director of Neuromodulation for Mayo Clinic Arizona and is an associate professor in the Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Medicine. Board certified in anesthesiology and fellowship-trained in interventional pain management, she employs a comprehensive approach that incorporates interventional techniques, medication, lifestyle modification, exercise, and psychology.

Strand gained national recognition as a competitor on CBS's "The Amazing Race," where she and her partner became the first all-female team to win the American version of the show. The team traveled more than 32,000 miles in three weeks, making history in the process. Strand is also the first winner with diabetes to compete on the show. Her experience managing Type 1 diabetes since age 12, while competing internationally, highlighted the challenges of chronic disease management across multiple continents and time zones.

Strand has been active in the diabetes community through organizations such as dLife, Beyond Type 1, Colgate, Diabetes Sisters, and JDRF, sharing her story to raise awareness and support others. She has contributed her expertise as an on-camera medical correspondent for dLife Television, CNN/HLN, the Rachel Ray Show, EXTRA!, and various local news stations and radio programs. Strand has worked extensively with JDRF on community education and children's advocacy and has delivered keynote lectures at more than 25 conferences.

Her contributions have been recognized within the medical community and beyond. Strand received Honorary Resolution #1760 from the California State Assembly for her work addressing healthcare needs in California. She was named Advocacy Ambassador of the Year by JDRF for her efforts supporting individuals living with Type 1 diabetes. Strand also received the Lisa Stearns Legacy Diversity Award from the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience for her work promoting diversity in medicine. She holds leadership positions with multiple pain societies, teaches at national conferences, and is involved in training Mayo Clinic Pain Medicine Fellows. Strand frequently speaks on topics including chronic pain management, diabetes, and perseverance, drawing on her scientific expertise and personal experience.