Catherine Finch may be widely recognized as the wife of Steven Rinella, the acclaimed outdoorsman, author, and host of MeatEater, but she is far more than a supporting character in his success story. Catherine has built a distinguished career in the publishing and media world, rising through the ranks of some of the industry’s biggest names before becoming the Chief Communications Officer of MeatEater, Inc. This in-depth biography uncovers her background, career journey, personal life, and the vital role she plays in her husband’s thriving brand.
Early Life and Academic Background
Childhood and Upbringing
Catherine Parlette Finch was born on May 18, 1979, in Saugatuck, Michigan, a quaint, artsy town on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Raised by Terry and Cynthia Stewart, Catherine was instilled with a deep appreciation for storytelling, education, and the outdoors — values that would later align seamlessly with her future husband’s lifestyle and career.
Education and Academic Interests
- Alma Mater: Colorado College
- Degree: Bachelor’s in English Literature
At Colorado College, Catherine honed her analytical and communication skills, setting the stage for a successful career in publishing and marketing. Her passion for literature and persuasive writing naturally led her into the world of media.
Career Milestones: From Publishing Powerhouse to MeatEater Executive
Early Career in Publishing
Catherine Finch’s early professional life reads like a roadmap of literary success:
- Simon & Schuster – Senior Publicist
- Miramax Books – Director of Publicity
- Weinstein Books – Head of Marketing and Publicity
These roles gave her experience working with bestselling authors and high-stakes campaigns, building her reputation as a results-driven communications expert.
Amazon Publishing: Scaling Up
In 2010, Catherine joined Amazon Publishing as Head of Publicity and was later promoted to Director of Strategic Programs. During her time at Amazon:
- She led major literary launches.
- Built corporate communication strategies.
- Helped scale Amazon’s publishing presence globally.
This high-level experience made her a natural fit for her next role — helping to manage and shape the narrative of the MeatEater brand.
Leadership Role at MeatEater, Inc.
Today, Catherine serves as the Chief Communications Officer at MeatEater, Inc., where she:
- Oversees PR and media strategy.
- Manages partnerships and strategic outreach.
- Helps translate her husband’s hunting and conservation ethos into a scalable brand narrative.
Her deep knowledge of publishing, media, and brand development plays a critical role in MeatEater’s growing presence across TV, podcasting, books, and e-commerce.
Love Story with Steven Rinella
How They Met
Catherine first met Steven Rinella in her role as a book publicist, when he was promoting his debut book. Despite their different backgrounds — she, a media-savvy book lover from Michigan, and he, a gritty outdoorsman from rural Michigan — sparks flew instantly.
Steven has famously said:
“She wasn’t the kind of woman I thought I’d marry — she was smarter.”
Marriage and Family Life
- Engaged: March 2007
- Married: July 13, 2008
- Children: Three (two sons and one daughter)
Today, the couple resides in Magnolia, Seattle, in a home filled with books, gear, and kids. They share a love for hiking, foraging, camping, and storytelling — all of which are part of the broader MeatEater narrative.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Personal Values and Interests
While Catherine largely stays out of the public eye, her personality and lifestyle values shine through:
- Passionate about education and lifelong learning
- Advocate for conservation, sustainability, and the responsible use of natural resources
- Supportive mother and mentor, known for her balance between career and family
- Animal lover, particularly drawn to ethical wildlife practices
She brings an intellectual and grounded presence to a brand centered on grit and nature.
Financial Overview and Net Worth
Income Streams
Catherine Finch’s net worth is estimated at $1.5 million to $2 million. Her income sources include:
- Executive salary at MeatEater, Inc.
- Past compensation from Amazon Publishing
- Consulting work and speaking engagements
Estimated Annual Salary: $280,000 – $340,000
Her financial and strategic contributions help fuel the growing MeatEater empire, which now includes merchandise, cookbooks, Netflix deals, and podcasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Catherine Finch do for a living?
She is the Chief Communications Officer at MeatEater, Inc. and a former executive at Amazon Publishing.
How did Catherine Finch and Steven Rinella meet?
They met while working on a book launch — she was a publicist, and Steven was the author.
How many children do they have?
The couple has three children, and they live in Seattle, Washington.
Is Catherine Finch active on social media?
She maintains a low public profile and avoids social media platforms, preferring to keep her private life out of the limelight.
Final Thoughts
Catherine Finch may not be the face of MeatEater, but she is without question one of its pillars. Her success as a publishing executive, her business acumen, and her supportive role as wife and mother make her an inspiring figure in her own right. Whether behind the scenes or managing major media moves, Catherine brings structure, strategy, and soul to everything she does.
About The Author
