Born and raised in Durant, Oklahoma, Catie spent her free time traveling all over the state to learn and explore its hidden treasures. Her parents instilled in her the importance of both traveling outside of the state and appreciating Oklahoma's land and art. Some of her favorite adventures included visiting Robbers Cave State Park near Wilburton, OK, where she learned about the social psychology experiment on group cooperation and intergroup conflict conducted in 1954. Catie and her father also searched for murals painted in post offices, which were intended to boost general morale during the hardships of the Great Depression. Additionally, Catie actively participated in festivals, celebrations, and camps, such as the Okie Noodling Tournament and Festival in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, and she attended the Chickasaw Summer Arts Academy for several years.

Catie earned her Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Oklahoma State University. She has a keen interest in organizational psychology and the development of professional development programs. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Business Administration.