Meet the Retirement Dream Team

At Big Money Retirement, we don’t just help people retire— we lead them through one of the most pivotal transitions of their lives.

Retirement isn’t just about finances; it’s about stepping confidently into a future filled with possibility.

That’s why we see ourselves as more than financial advisors—we are trusted guides, strategic partners, and bold leaders who help our clients navigate retirement with clarity and assurance. We don’t sugarcoat the truth or rely on cookie-cutter solutions. Instead, we bring authenticity, expertise, and a deep commitment to ensuring our clients are equipped to make the right decisions for their future.

Like a seasoned trail guide helping adventurers reach their destination, we illuminate the path, anticipate challenges, and ensure every choice aligns with the vision our clients have for their retirement. Because at Big Money Retirement, leadership isn’t just a title—it’s a responsibility we take seriously.

Meet Our Team

Johnathan Burgess

Founder & Financial Advisor

Johnathan started Big Money Retirement Solutions in 2020 after he had successfully built and sold a captive insurance agency that had a focus in retirement planning. After Johnathan became a fiduciary, he realized the value of independent financial advice and built Big Money around the best products and planning software available to the independent advisor.

Amie Newton CPFA^®

Vice President of Operations & Financial Advisor

Amie joined Big Money in 2023 with over 17 years of financial and retirement planning experience. She holds a FINRA Series 6 and 63 Registered Securities Representative license and is a South Carolina Life/Health/Accident/Variable Product Insurance Agent. Additionally, as a Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor^®, Amie is recognized as a financial professional that demonstrates expertise and experience working specifically with retirement plans.

Samantha Burgess

Executive Director of Big Money Cares Foundation

Clem Osborne

Financial Advisor

Clem is a fiduciary advisor who holds a Series 65 license and a life insurance license. His experience includes careers in healthcare, real estate, and over 30 years in banking. At Big Money, Clem enjoys using his budgeting and planning expertise to develop personalized, comprehensive retirement plans for each client.

Alan Hicks NSSA^®

Head of Client Solutions
& Financial Advisor

Alan is a Financial Advisor who holds both a FINRA Series 7 and 66 license and a South Carolina Life insurance license. Alan enjoys helping clients map out a long-term retirement plan and works with them to keep them on track. Before becoming a Financial Advisor, Alan had decades of experience in banking and mortgage lending.

Mael Jacquemin

Senior Associate Paraplanner

Born in Nantua, France, and raised in Greenville, SC, Mael brings a unique international perspective to financial planning. Currently a Senior at Clemson University, Mael is pursuing a degree in Accounting and is set to graduate in May 2025. Mael supports the team with detailed financial analyses, strategic planning, and client-focused solutions. Beyond the world of finance, Mael is a dedicated semi-professional paintball player, competing in tournaments across the country.

Luke Maloney-Grimes NSSA^®

Lead Financial Advisor

Luke is an accomplished financial analyst who joined Big Money in 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience as a brokerage stock trader from Auckland, New Zealand. A graduate with top honors in Financial Economics, he excels in investment research and client onboarding. At Big Money, Luke leverages his expertise to deliver exceptional financial optimization services, drawing on his global perspective and analytical acumen to enhance client portfolios and financial strategies.

Matthew Hastings, WMCP^®, CRPC^®, NSSA^®

Lead Financial Advisor

With a decade of experience at two of the largest financial institutions in America, Matt recently joined Big Money Retirement Solutions in 2024 as a fiduciary financial advisor. Armed with the WMCP® and CRPC® designations, he leverages a wealth of experience to guide clients towards financial success. Beyond the world of finance, Matt is a family man, married with three children, that live on their family farm together operating a thriving market garden. His interests extend to practicing Jiu-Jitsu, lacrosse and strategic investments in real estate, reflecting a diverse skill set ready to benefit clients.

Lindsey Martin

Business Development Manager

Born and raised in Spartanburg, SC, Lindsey is a proud resident of the Upstate. Lindsey joined Big Money Retirement Solutions in 2023, bringing with her over a decade of customer service experience. In her role as Business Development Manager, she plays a vital part in coordinating appointments for prospective clients, planning and executing a range of executive events—from educational dinners to the popular Wine & Wisdom gatherings—and working internally to foster and uplift the company’s positive culture. As a devoted mother, Lindsey cherishes spending her free time at the park with her two young sons or taking family trips to the mountains and the beach, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Chris Jennings, EA

Tax Advisor

Chris Jennings is an Enrolled Agent with the IRS who is dedicated to helping our clients reduce their tax bills as much as possible through proactive tax planning. In his free time, he loves the rodeo scene and spending time with his beloved dogs. Chris joined Big Money in 2024, bringing with him a wealth of expertise and a passion for optimizing tax strategies. He ensures that our clients fully understand their tax opportunities, working tirelessly to secure their financial well-being. Outside of work, Chris enjoys participating in rodeo events and caring for his dogs, balancing his professional dedication with his personal passions.

Edward "Teddy" Heiser NSSA^®

Lead Financial Advisor

Teddy is a Financial Advisor who holds a Series 65 license and a life and health insurance license. Teddy joined Big Money in 2024 where he aims to provide clients with a roadmap to financial success in their retirement. With prior experience in holistic financial planning, he is able to use his wide range of knowledge to make sure clients are on the right path to financial freedom. Prior to joining the finance industry, Teddy played baseball at Erskine College. He and his wife, Megan, have a daughter who they love to spend time with. His hobby of choice is playing golf.

Tyler Decker, NSSA^®

Lead Financial Advisor

Tyler brings a unique combination of military and financial expertise to Big Money Retirement Solutions. With eight years as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialist,

he developed advanced problem-solving, risk assessment, and leadership skills in high-pressure environments. Building on this foundation, Tyler transitioned to a career in finance, bringing over six years of experience as a financial advisor. He is committed to guiding clients through retirement with clarity and confidence.

Alan (AP) Pedraza

Associate Paraplanner

Alan (AP) brings a strong work ethic and attention to detail to the financial planning process as a paraplanner. Born and raised in Ware Shoals, SC, he is currently a senior at Clemson University, pursuing a degree in Financial Management set to graduate in May 2025. Alan holds a South Carolina Life and Health Insurance Agent license and supports the team by preparing key financial documents, managing client paperwork, and ensuring all information is accurately integrated into the firm’s software. His passion for helping others navigate their financial future drives his commitment to excellence in wealth management.

Emily Sandidge

Executive Assistant

Before joining Big Money Retirement Solutions in August 2024, Emily worked closely with top executives at Jeff Bezos’ environmental philanthropy, the Bezos Earth Fund. Now at Big Money, she provides invaluable support to our fearless leader, our team, and our clients. Emily is deeply passionate about both travel and helping others—so far, she has explored nearly 60 countries across six continents!

Nancy Dhillon

Client Onboarding Specialist

Originally from India, Nancy moved to the United States in 2013 after traveling extensively around the world. She joined Big Money in February 2025, bringing over a decade of client service experience. Previously, she worked as a Product Owner at a leading wealth management firm, where she honed her ability to understand client needs and deliver exceptional service. Outside of work, Nancy is a devoted mother to her son and daughter. She treasures quality time with her children, whether exploring new places, embarking on adventures, or enjoying life’s simple moments. Passionate about giving back, she actively volunteers and seeks opportunities to make a meaningful impact in her community.

Mari Shamburger

Marketing Coordinator

Mari joined Big Money in 2025, bringing over two decades of experience in marketing, sales, and customer service. She excels at helping businesses grow through strategic planning and creating impactful client experiences.
As our Marketing Coordinator, she spearheads Wine & Wisdom gatherings, assists with dinner events, and coordinates team-building activities. Outside of work, she’s often on the sidelines cheering for her son at soccer games or planning her family’s next Caribbean cruise!

Elizabeth Mungo

Client Solutions Specialist
& Financial Advisor

Elizabeth joined Big Money in 2025 as a Client Solutions Specialist. Elizabeth holds a Series 65 License and brings a strong foundation in business with a degree in Finance, Marketing and Entrepreneurship.She takes pride in her ability to communicate clearly and make complex information easy to understand. Whether guiding clients through questions or providing day-to-day support, she is dedicated to making each client feel informed, heard, and valued.Outside of the office, Elizabeth enjoys running, cooking, and creative pursuits in art, sewing, and interior design.

Read All About It: Google Reviews

With a five-star rating on Google, we appreciate all of our clients, current, past, and future.
If you’ve worked with us, we welcome you to leave us a review!

I trust thee guys with all of my retirement and financial planning and was able to retire early.

James Clements
July 2, 2025
Great financial

Southernkollect
July 2, 2025
Great company!

Debbie keller
July 2, 2025
No pressure!

gerri miezio
July 2, 2025
Great Experience very knowledgeable

Glenn Gary
July 2, 2025
Wonderful friendly people to work with. They have awesome events. Oh and they are financial wizards!!

Christine Clements
July 2, 2025
Very pleased with the guidance from Teddy Heiser. Our Big Money investments are far outperforming our previous accounts.

Tom Bacola
July 2, 2025
Best customer service! Love this team!

Kathy Jackson
July 2, 2025
Great company with great personal care. Thank you Jonathan and Alan

monica miller
July 2, 2025
Fantastic group! Love the programs. If you are looking for a financial team give these guys a shout!

Jerri Stevens
July 2, 2025