Individuals, Families, and Businesses
Straight Forward
Financial Guidance
What We Believe In
core values
- Big Picture Planning
- Low-Cost Investing
- Minimizing Taxes
- Saving you Time and Energy
- Fair Pricing
Our People
Meet The Team
Tom Starkey
Managing Partner
651.389.4131
thomas.starkey@falconfinancialllc.com
I’m Tom Starkey, managing partner and co-founder at our firm. I understand that the decision to work with a financial planner is never taken lightly, and appreciate that our clients entrust us with their financial well-being. I strive to go above and beyond any expectations our clients have when working together.
I enjoy helping people experience the “next level” of financial planning. When you’re ready to start making a true commitment to planning for the future, we can help you get there. And through a wealth of experience designing group retirement plans and executive benefits, I’m always eager to help business owners who truly want to make a positive impact on the lives of their employees.
Before joining the financial services industry, I earned an undergraduate degree in Business Management from the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. While there, I was a four year letter winner on the AFA hockey team.
When I’m not in the office, I enjoy volunteering my time as a youth hockey coach or being out on the golf course playing as much as I can with my family, friends and clients. My wife, Molly, and I live in Maple Grove with our three boys: Jack, Finn and Leo, and our yellow lab, Sota. We're very active in youth hockey, baseball, and golf.
You can find me at our Arden Hills location.
- FINRA Series 7, 66 & 24 licensed
- Life and Health insurance licensed
Investment advisory products and services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.
California Insurance License #: 0M84860
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Amy Burg, ChFC, CLU
Partner
651.389.4131
amy.burg@falconfinancialllc.com
My name is Amy Burg, and I’m a founder and partner at our firm. My job is to help our clients build a secure financial future. I’m dedicated to doing it the right way, meaning I believe in committing fully to understanding your needs today and goals for tomorrow before beginning to plan.
During my 20+ years of experience, I’ve worked hard to gain the designations and registrations needed to show my clients that I’m well-versed in their complex financial matters. Additionally, I’ve made a professional commitment to stay on top of today’s most important financial issues that may affect clients.
My designations include:
- Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)
- Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU)
- FINRA Series 7
- FINRA Series 63 & 65
- Life/Health Insurance
As we work together, I’ll help you map and define your financial goals. In doing so, we can discuss the appropriate products to help guide you toward your objectives.
On a personal note, my husband Chris, and two children, Seth and Ellie reside in Lake Elmo, MN. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at our cabin, skiing and running, and walking with our Bernese Mountain dog, Barley, every morning.
You can find Amy at our Arden Hills location.
Investment advisory products and services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.
Securities offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Jacob Lewis
Partner
651.389.4131
jacob.lewis@falconfinancialllc.com
I’m Jacob Lewis, one of our firm’s partners. Since graduating with a bachelor’s degree in finance and economics from the University of St. Thomas, I’ve remained dedicated to ongoing financial education throughout my career. In doing so, I’ve attended the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and the American College.
I currently hold the following licenses:
- FINRA Series 7 securities
- FINRA Series 66
- Life/Health/Accident Insurance
My wife, Breanna, and I live in Pequot Lakes, MN with our three sons, Charles, Owen, and Theo. When I’m not here at the office or chasing my boys around, I enjoy hunting, golfing, cooking (or, more specifically, grilling and smoking meat) and traveling. I consider myself an outdoor enthusiast and enjoy spending time with my friends and family at our cabin in Northern Minnesota.
Retirement Planning Specialist title awarded by Equitable Advisors, based upon receipt of a Certificate in Retirement Planning from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Kevin Banitt, CFP®
Partner
507.287.8797
kevin.banitt@falconfinancialllc.com
I’m Kevin Banitt, CFP®, partner and financial planner at our firm. I started in the finance industry after earning a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Minnesota. In 2008, I found a home in financial planning as I worked jointly with a Minnesota-based advisor for four years. When it came time for him to retire, I bought his practice in 2013.
While I’m a Minnesota native and still maintain a full staff and office there, my wife and I moved to South Carolina in July of 2018. Yes, part of the reason was to avoid those Minnesota winters. But I’m also here to work with clients on the East Coast while partnering with another soon-to-retire advisor.
My wife, Devin, and I are enjoying raising our family. We have two boys, Maxwell and his younger brother, Miles. When I have some free time on my hands, you can find me spending it with our family, or enjoying some boating, golf, hunting, fishing and archery.
You can find Kevin at our Columbia, South Carolina location as well as our Rochester, MN location.
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Shane Schiavo
Partner
shane.schiavo@falconfinancialllc.com
My name is Shane Schiavo. I am a financial professional with Equitable since August of 2013. I graduated from St. John’s University where I studied Business Management and Economics. My father and uncle are both in the financial advising business and it has always been my passion and calling. I enjoy helping people become financially secure and find great pride and joy in my work.
My wife, Molly, and I live in Maple Grove with our 2 boys, Paxton and Rowan. In my free time, I am an avid golfer, sports fan, and socializer. I love attending sporting events and social events with my friends and love spending time with friends and family at the cabin or vacation destination. I am initially from the small town of Marshall MN but over the past 6 years have fallen in love with Minneapolis and living the cities life. I have my series 7, series 66, and life and health insurance licenses.
You can find Shane at our Minneapolis location.
Investment advisory products and services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.
California Insurance License #: 4037383
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Jeffrey Bemel
Financial Professional
612.243.3280
jeffrey.bemel@falconfinancialllc.com
Jeffrey Bemel has been in the financial services industry since 1994 and has over 26 years of experience providing financial planning and investment expertise to individuals and small business owners.
Attention to detail, good listening skills and great empathy are symbols of his appreciation by his clients. He is effectively supported by a team of administration, group benefits, and investment products specialists whose teamwork and professionalism help him build long- term relationships with his growing client base and provide excellent customer service.
Jeff is proud recipient of the Five Star Wealth Manager Award from 2010-2020 and was recently invited to join the Million Dollar Round Table. His focus is on education professionals and small business owners.
Jeff is married to his wife Susan and has a daughter Sophia. Away from the business he enjoys restoring classic cars, antiques, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
This Five Star Wealth Manager Award was given on July 2023, remains valid for the year of 2023/2024 and is administered by Crescendo Business Services, LLC (dba five Star Professional). Neither the named award recipient nor any other party has paid or otherwise compensated Crescendo Business Services, LLC to be considered for or to win the award.
Investment advisory products and services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.
California Insurance License #: 0C89657
Securities offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
John Brey
Financial Advisor
My name is John Brey, I have been with the firm since graduating with my bachelor’s degree in finance from St. Cloud State University. I work with clients by building a financial plan, navigating the complexities of retirement, and educating on markets and ongoing savings strategies. I currently hold the following licensing’s: - FINRA Series 7 securities - FINRA Series 66 - SIE - Securities Industry Essentials Examination - Life/Health/Accident Insurance I grew up in Champlin, Minnesota and currently live in St. Louis Park with my fiancé Adrianna. I am an avid hockey fan and we both enjoy watching the Wild and our St. Cloud State Huskies. When I am not in the office, you can find me on the golf course or spending time with family.
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Michael Ihrke
Financial Professional
michael.ihrke@falconfinancialllc.com
Hello, my name is Mike Ihrke. Managing your financial future can seem like a daunting and scary process, but it shouldn’t be. My job is to handle your finances while allowing you to rest comfortably knowing that a dedicated partner is looking out for you.
I provide customized solutions for my clients. No two people are exactly alike; I don't believe the "one size fits all" solution is realistic. If you prefer a personal touch with your best interests in mind, you’ve come to the right place.
My licenses include:
FINRA Series 7 & 66
Life and Health Insurance
Prior to working in the financial services industry I spent 20 years managing large IT projects for Fortune 500 companies. Working on high pressure projects afforded me the opportunity to hone my problem solving skills and develop critical thinking capabilities, which translate directly to building financial roadmaps for clients.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my wife (Amy) and 3 kids (Chase, Emma, Camden), 2 dogs, and 1 grandmother. I'm actively involved coaching youth/high school football, as well as playing baseball and hockey.
I look forward to working with you from our Rochester location or using our best-in-class virtual meeting solutions.
Investment advisory products and services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Kade Brannon
Financial Advisor
My name is Kade Brannon, and I have been a financial professional with Equitable Advisors since November of 2020. I graduated from Bethel University where I played hockey all four years and double majored in Business-Finance and Missional Ministries. I take pride in ensuring that I am working for my client’s best interest while working towards both their short-term and long-term goals. My clients can expect a thorough fact check to see where they are currently, where they want to be, and a plan for how to get there. There isn't a "one size fits all" plan for anybody, every client has their own story and deserves to be treated as such. My current licenses are: FINRA Series 7, 63, and 65 Life, Accidental, and Health My wife, Erika, and I reside in Oakdale, MN with our daughter, Ashlyn Mae. Away from work, I love to coach and play hockey, golf, and spend time with friends and family. As a native Dallas, Texan, I am a diehard Dallas sports fan and love to attend as many away games as possible when any of my teams visit Minnesota.
California Insurance License #: 4110779
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Jess Jenson
Executive Assistant
651.389.4131
I’m Jess Jenson, an administrative assistant at our Arden Hills office. Since joining our team in 2016, I’ve been responsible for helping out with any client service needs. When you call our office, I’m the first one to greet you on the line!
My husband, Nathan, and our two dogs, London and Riley, live in Anoka, MN. Outside of the office, I enjoy being outdoors and spending time with my friends and family.
You can find Jess at our Arden Hills location.
Jess Jenson offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.
Robert Korluka
Financial Advisor
I’m Robert Korluka with Falcon Financial Group & as a Financial Advisor I help individuals & business owners make an impact in their local community, immediate family & future legacy. I take prospective clients through an all-inclusive planning approach which includes analysis of goals, priorities, and available resources. Our extensive services allow me to create customized advice & strategies regarding retirement planning, wealth management strategies & risk prevention. My mission is to provide the highest level of service while being someone others can depend on. A few of my financial planning designations include: • FINRA Series 7, 6, 63 & 65 licensed • Life, Accident and Health insurance licensed When I’m not in the office, I enjoy volunteering in my local community of Stillwater, MN through the Chamber of Commerce along with being a board member for two separate non-profit groups. I’m an avid golfer & outdoor enthusiast. I love spending time with my amazing wife Shelby along with our two dogs Sadie & Sophie. On the weekends you can typically find us hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, or traveling somewhere we’ve never been. You can find me at our Arden Hills location.
Securities offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (NY, NY 212-314-4600), member FINRA, SIPC (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN). Investment advisory products and services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
William "Bill" Ogburn
I am Bill Ogburn, CLU, I earned my undergraduate degree in Business Administration from The Citadel in Charleston, SC. and started my career in the financial business in 1972. Over the years, I have adapted as important changes have happened in order to continue to help my clients achieve financial independence. Over the years I have been active in our local industry by serving as Past President CLU, ChFC. I am also a member of The Equitable Hall of Fame. My wife Kay and I reside in Columbia, SC and I enjoy playing golf, hunting and spending time at our home in Western North Carolina. Designations held: • Chartered Life Underwriter • Qualified Plan Specialist • FINRA Series 1, 26, 63 & 65 (FINRA Series 1 is the precursor to Series 7) • Life/Health Insurance License
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC (212-314-4600), member FINRA/SIPC. Annuity and insurance products offered through Equitable Network, LLC and its insurance agency subsidiaries. Equitable Network, LLC does business in California as Equitable Network Insurance Agency of California, LLC and, in Utah, Equitable Network Insurance Agency of Utah, LLC. Equitable Advisors and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals may transact business and/or respond to inquiries only in state(s) in which they are properly registered and/or licensed. The information in this web site is not investment or securities advice and does not constitute an offer.
Falcon Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Equitable Advisors, LLC or its affiliates.
Leanna Hain
Executive Assistant
507.287.8797
My name is Leanna Hain, and I am the assistant to Kevin Banitt. I first started working with Kevin through an internship at a local college. After the internship ended, I graduated with an associate’s degree in administrative assistance and began working with Kevin full-time.
When I’m not at work, you can find me hanging out with my four dogs: Jax, Junior, Dusty and Kloe. In my free time, I enjoy photography. And if there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I am a huge Arsenal Football Club fan. It’s my dream to one day make it to London and watch them play.
You can find Leanna at our Rochester location.
Leanna Hain offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.
Nicole Johnson
Planning Associate
nicole.johnson2@falconfinancialllc.com
I have been in the wealth management industry since 2014, after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where I studied Personal Finance. To enhance my education I earned the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designation in 2017 followed by earning the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional designation in 2019. Both designations are earned by completing several courses focused on financial planning concepts. In my new position with Equitable Advisors I am able to focus my experience by providing assistance to our financial professionals based on my knowledge of eMoney software helping them with financial planning for their client's needs. My husband, Nick, and I live in Blaine with our daughter, Ellie. In my free time, I love being on the lake in the summers and spending time with friends/family.
Nicole Johnson offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state. CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ are certification marks owned by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. These marks are awarded to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. Equitable Financial Advisors in MI and TN.
Ashley Kleinschrodt
Executive Assistant
952.545.2880
ashley.kleinschrodt@falconfinancialllc.com
My name is Ashley Kleinschrodt. I am the administrative assistant at the Minneapolis office for Shane Schiavo and Jeff Bemel. I joined the team here in 2022, and have enjoyed assisting with many aspects of the business so far. Outside of the office, I currently live in Anoka with my partner Mason. I enjoy spending my time outside gardening with a dog when possible. I can often be found at local music events and concerts on the weekends. At home I can be found working on a variety of fiber arts including crochet, sewing, knitting, and quilting.
Ashley Kleinschrodt offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.
Matt Meyer
Scheduling Liason
matthew.meyer@falconfinancialllc.com
My name is Matt Meyer, I’m a graduate of Gustavus Adolphus College where I studied business management. I’ve worked for Equitable as a scheduling assistant since early 2022. I currently live in Richfield with my wife, Abby, and dog Winnie. In my free time I enjoy attending concerts and sporting events, and spending time with family and friends. I’m originally from Wabasha, a small town in Southeastern Minnesota locally famous for being the location of my favorite movies, Grumpy Old Men and Grumpier Old Men.
Matt Meyer offers support to our registered representatives and is not licensed to offer securities, investment advisory services or insurance in any state.

What to Expect
- Real Life Advice
- Reaching Your Goals
- Cash Flow Planning
We help clients achieve financial independence. Our goal is to get you to a “work-optional” place in life through simple and transparent ongoing planning.
Anyone can set up a financial plan. Evaluating real-time changes and decisions along the way is where you’ll truly find the value in working with us.
Most clients view us as their Personal CFO. If you’re looking to offload the work, research, time and effort it takes to truly hold yourself accountable to be the best financial version of yourself, you’re in the right place.
· Tom Starkey, CFP®, Managing Partner

Abous Us
We place client interests first.
YOUR EXPERIENCE
Steps 1-3 Are Typically Accomplished in 30-60 Days. Step 4 Lasts A Lifetime.

2. Gather Data
Detailed meeting where we gather the info needed to start working with you. This can be in-person, over the phone, or through video.

3. Create Models
Model out your current situation, suggested improvements, investment strategies, and explore what-if scenarios.

4. Implement & Monitor
Act on investment strategies. Life changes: modify and adapt as needed.
It’s all in the details…
Everything in One Place
Link and consolidate all your assets on one convenient, secure site. Including accounts we don't manage, like your workplace 401k, bank accounts, mortgages, etc.
Preparation is the Key to Retirement
Retirement Accounts When You Change Your Job
Timing Your Retirement
If you’re ready to start truly building towards financial freedom, let’s talk!
Schedule An IntroResources
Welcome To Our Research Center! We Have Created A Library Of Information On Important Financial Topics That We Believe You'll Find Helpful.
Educate yourself on a variety of financial topics.
A host of financial tools to assist you.
Timely newsletters to help you stay current.
Financial terms from A to Z.
Arden Hills Office:
3820 Cleveland Ave NE, Suite 650
Arden Hills, MN 55112
Phone: 651.389.4130
Rochester Office:
421 1st Ave SW, Suite 303
Rochester, MN 55902
Phone: 507.289.4045
Columbia, SC Office:
2711 Middleburg Dr, Suite 105
Columbia, SC 29036
Phone: 803.766.0774
Minneapolis, MN Office:
8421 Wayzata Blvd, Suite 100
Minneapolis, MN 55426
Phone: 612.243.3235
Email: contact@falconfinancialllc.com