Catherine Finch is far more than just the spouse of a famous television host. While her husband, Steven Rinella, commands the spotlight through his MeatEater outdoor brand and Netflix series, Catherine has built a decades-long career as a prominent publishing executive and corporate communications leader. Operating largely behind the scenes, she brings high-level media expertise to the outdoor industry.
Born Catherine Parlette Finch, she grew up in Saugatuck, Michigan, before pursuing higher education at Colorado College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. She later sharpened her professional credentials with specialized publishing training at Columbia University. Her career trajectory took root in New York City's competitive literary scene, where she managed major book launches and worked alongside some of the country's largest publishing houses.
Professional Background and Publishing Career
Long before she crossed paths with her future husband, Catherine established herself as a powerhouse in literary publicity. In 2002, she secured a position as a senior publicist at Simon & Schuster. During her three-year tenure, she coordinated promotional campaigns for prominent authors and best-selling titles.
Her leadership capabilities caught the attention of independent film and publishing entities. In August 2005, she transitioned to Miramax Books as publicity director, steering marketing initiatives for high-profile releases. She later served as director of marketing and publicity for Weinstein Books, managing press outreach and author tours. To read more about the background here, Associated Press provides an informative breakdown.
By 2011, technology giants were heavily investing in digital literature. Catherine joined Amazon Publishing as head of publicity, overseeing promotional strategies for the company's expanding book lines. Her strategic acumen earned her a promotion in 2015 to director of strategic programs, a role she maintained for several years while guiding large-scale publishing operations.
Meeting Steven Rinella and Family Life
The paths of Catherine Finch and Steven Rinella crossed in New York City around 2006. At the time, Steven was preparing to launch his career as a mainstream author with his first book, The Scavenger's Guide to Haute Cuisine. Because Catherine worked as a book publicist in the city, their professional circles naturally overlapped.
What began as a professional collaboration turned into a romance. After dating for roughly two years, Steven proposed in March 2007. The couple married on July 13, 2008, during an intimate ceremony at a private property in Fennville, Michigan.
Over the years, the family grew to include three children—two sons and a daughter. While Steven's career involves extensive travel, filming wilderness expeditions, and hosting podcasts, the family maintains their primary residence in Bozeman, Montana. This location places them close to the rugged terrain that defines Steven's brand while offering a quiet environment for raising their children away from urban centers.
Leadership at MeatEater Inc.
In July 2021, Catherine officially integrated her executive publishing background with her husband's burgeoning media enterprise. She stepped into the role of chief communications officer at MeatEater, Inc., based in Bozeman.
In this capacity, she oversees corporate communications, strategic partnerships, and cross-platform media integration. Her leadership helps manage the brand's expansive portfolio, which includes apparel, podcasts, conservation initiatives, and digital media production. Rather than remaining a silent partner, she applies her corporate expertise to scale the business operations behind the scenes.
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Catherine engages with regional non-profit organizations. She serves on the board of directors for Big Sky Youth Empowerment, an organization dedicated to mentoring vulnerable youth through outdoor adventures and group activities in Montana.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Catherine Finch's educational background?
She graduated from Colorado College with a Bachelor of Arts in English and subsequently completed a publishing certification course at Columbia University.
When did Catherine Finch and Steven Rinella get married?
The couple exchanged vows on July 13, 2008, in Fennville, Michigan, after meeting in New York City two years prior.
What is Catherine Finch's current role at MeatEater?
She serves as the chief communications officer, managing corporate communications, strategic partnerships, and brand integration for the company.
Do Catherine and Steven have children?
Yes, they share three children together: two sons and one daughter. They live primarily in Bozeman, Montana.
