Catherine Finch: Inside Career Of Steven Rinella Wife

Catherine Finch is best known as the wife of American author, conservationist, and television personality Steven Rinella, but her professional footprint extends far beyond her husband's popular Netflix series, MeatEater. While Steven commands the public spotlight through hunting expeditions, books, and media appearances, Catherine has built a quiet, formidable career in the publishing and corporate communications sectors.

Operating largely away from tabloid attention, she shapes media strategy from behind the scenes. Understanding her background reveals a skilled media executive who navigated competitive New York publishing houses long before joining forces with her husband's outdoor lifestyle empire.

Early Life and Educational Background

Born on May 18, 1979, in Saugatuck, Michigan, Catherine Parlette Finch grew up with an appreciation for literature and communication. After completing her primary and secondary education in Michigan, she moved west to attend Colorado College.

At Colorado College, she pursued her passion for literature, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Recognizing the corporate and commercial potential of the written word, she then relocated to New York City to attend a specialized publishing course at Columbia University. This academic foundation positioned her perfectly for the fast-paced world of Manhattan book publishing houses at the turn of the millennium.

A Formidable Career in Publishing and Publicity

Long before marrying into the outdoor entertainment industry, Catherine established herself as a heavy hitter in book publicity. Her corporate journey spans over two decades across several major publishing institutions:

• Simon & Schuster: She launched her professional career in 2002, working as a senior publicist for three years and managing major author campaigns.
• Miramax Books: In 2005, she transitioned to Miramax Books as a publicity director, handling high-profile releases.
• Weinstein Books: She continued her executive trajectory as a director of marketing and publicity.
• Amazon Publishing: Moving into digital and tech-adjacent publishing, she directed publicity units before stepping into a broader role as director of strategic programs from 2015 to 2018.

Her deep corporate experience gave her a rare blend of traditional literary public relations and modern digital brand strategy.

Meeting Steven Rinella and Building a Family

The paths of Catherine Finch and Steven Rinella crossed in New York City around 2006. At the time, Steven was preparing the release of his first book, The Scavenger's Guide to Haute Cuisine. Working within the New York publishing circuit, Catherine crossed paths with the rising outdoor writer.

Steven has often joked in interviews that Catherine did not match the stereotypical wilderness-obsessed partner he originally imagined for himself. Despite coming from distinct worlds—urban media versus remote wilderness tracking—the couple connected over shared values and mutual respect.

After dating for a period, Steven proposed in March 2007. They tied the knot on July 13, 2008, during a private ceremony in Fennville, Michigan. Over the years, they welcomed three children into their family: two sons and a daughter. To protect their children's privacy, the couple keeps their kids away from the constant glare of social media spotlight.

Core Leadership at MeatEater, Inc.

When Steven founded MeatEater, Inc. in Bozeman, Montana, in 2011, the company expanded rapidly from a television show and podcast into a massive multi-media lifestyle brand. Given her extensive corporate publishing and publicity background, Catherine was uniquely qualified to help steer the company's growth.

In July 2021, she officially joined the corporate team in Bozeman. She serves as the Chief Communications Officer of Communications, Integration, and Partnerships. In this role, she oversees brand alliances, corporate communications, and strategic media integration. Her executive leadership helps manage the massive operational footprint of a brand that spans apparel, digital media, e-commerce, and conservation initiatives.

Beyond her corporate duties, she remains active in her local community, including serving as a board member for Big Sky Youth Empowerment, a non-profit organization focused on mentoring vulnerable teenagers through outdoor challenges.

Common Misconceptions About Catherine Finch

Because her husband is a prominent media figure, several myths circulate online regarding her life and professional standing.

• The "Housewife" Myth: Many casual viewers assume celebrity spouses do not work. In reality, Catherine had a flourishing executive career in Manhattan years before MeatEater became a household name.
• Social Media Presence: Unlike many public figures, Catherine maintains a strictly private digital footprint. Speculative biographical sites often confuse her private lifestyle with a lack of professional activity.
• Full-Time Hunting: While she partakes in outdoor excursions and consumes wild game with her family, she is not a full-time hunter or wilderness guide like her husband. Her primary domain remains executive communication and corporate strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Catherine Finch's educational background?

She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Colorado College and completed a professional publishing program at Columbia University.

When did Catherine Finch and Steven Rinella marry?

The couple married on July 13, 2008, in a private ceremony held in Fennville, Michigan.

What is Catherine Finch's role at MeatEater?

She serves as the Chief Communications Officer of Communications, Integration, and Partnerships at MeatEater, helping manage brand strategy and media partnerships.

How many children do Steven Rinella and Catherine Finch have?

They share three children together: two sons and one daughter.

Where do Catherine Finch and her family live?

The family resides primarily in Bozeman, Montana, where MeatEater, Inc. maintains its corporate headquarters.