Educate yourself on a variety of financial topics.
The Strategy Behind the Life You Want
Start the Conversation
What You Can Count On
We help you protect what you’ve built and prepare for what’s next.
Our goal isn’t just financial independence; it’s giving you the clarity and confidence to know you can work if you want to, not because you have to. That comes from ongoing, strategic planning that adapts as your life and the markets change.
Anyone can draft a financial plan.
The real value is in navigating decisions as they happen: anticipating risks, spotting opportunities, and adjusting your strategy along the way. That’s where we stand apart.
Think of us as your Personal CFO.
We take the complexity off your plate - the research, the analysis, the constant monitoring - so you can focus on living the life you’ve worked hard to create. With Falcon Financial, you’ll always know where you stand, why each decision matters, and how your plan keeps you moving toward your goals.
Our Foundation
Confident: Grounded in deep experience, we speak with certainty and clarity.
Genuine: Personable and human; one-on-one relationships rooted in honesty and discretion.
Strategic: Every recommendation aligns with your long-term vision, protecting your wealth and preparing you for what’s ahead.
Direct: Focused guidance that tells you what matters, why, and what to do next.
Discreet: Your privacy is paramount, handled with the utmost trust and confidentiality.
$715M Assets Placed Under Management
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.
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, CEPA
Partner
kevin.banitt@falconfinancialllc.com
Schedule an Appointment with Kevin! - Calendar
I’m Kevin Banitt, 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 3 boys, Paxton, Rowan, and Grayson. 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
john.brey@falconfinancialllc.com
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 wife 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.
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’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.
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.
Dave Skraba
Financial Advisor
6122433280
david.skraba@falconfinancialllc.com
As a Financial Advisor with the Falcon Financial Group, I am dedicated to helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals and objectives.
I am committed to excellence and in my 30-plus years within the industry, I continue to enhance my skillset through ongoing learning. I possess the following FINRA and State Registrations/Licenses in multiple states:
- FINRA - Series 6, Series 7, Series 24, Series 53, Series 63, and Series 65.
- STATE - Life / Health / Accident insurance
I am a graduate of Eveleth (MN) Senior High School and received two Bachelor of Arts Degrees (Economics & Business, Mathematics) from Macalester College in Saint Paul, MN.
My education and experience are the cornerstone to my practical approach to offering financial planning services and products to my clientele. Rather than just recommending a combination of unrelated products, I first consider your specific goals and objectives. By working together, we can formulate a plan to address any of your goals and objectives.
My wife Dawn and I reside in Eden Prairie (MN) with our dog Frankie. Some of my favorite activities away from work include genealogy, snowmobiling, and travel. I also enjoy the sports of football, golf, and hockey. Thank you for visiting.
Jeremy Lewis
Financial Advisor
612.243.3280
jeremy.lewis@falconfinancialllc.com
My name is Jeremy Lewis, I have been with the firm since 2022 and joined full time after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Personal Finance; Financial Planning from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I help my clients navigate preparing for retirement and other financial goals through planning. My mission is to build long-term relationships with my clients and be a resource throughout their ever-changing lives.
I currently hold the following licenses:
- FINRA Series 7 securities
- FINRA Series 66
- Life/Health/Accident Insurance
When I’m not at the office, I enjoy being outdoors, golfing, traveling and spending time with my family.
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.
Protect What You've Built. Plan for What's Next.
Resources
We Have Created a Library of Information On Important Financial Topics That We Believe You'll Find Helpful.
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:
2766 Commerce Dr. NW Suite B
Rochester, MN 55901
Phone: 507.289.4045
Columbia, SC Office:
2711 Middleburg Dr, Suite 105
Columbia, SC 29036
Phone: 803.766.0774
Minneapolis, MN Office:
8441 Wayzata Blvd, Suite 230
Minneapolis, MN 55426
Phone: 612.243.3235
Pequot Lake Office:
30910 Government Drive
Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
Email: thomas.starkey@falconfinancialllc.com