About Riske, Brown & Associates

Trusted Insurance & Benefit Planning Since 1975



Since 1975, Riske, Brown & Associates has built a reputation for excellence in insurance and employee benefits consulting. We offer a full spectrum of services—from group benefits and individual insurance to financial and retirement planning—delivered with insight, integrity, and a commitment to personalized service.

For over 30 years, we’ve helped businesses navigate complex insurance needs with a focus on strategic planning, exceptional service, and cutting-edge technology. Our dedicated team of specialists works closely with each client to provide proactive guidance, manage plan implementation, and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.

Backed by decades of experience and ongoing professional development, our consultants bring both expertise and innovation to every relationship. From benefit design and cost analysis to employee education and claims support, we take the work off your desk and put it into the hands of professionals you can trust.

At Riske, Brown & Associates, we do more than deliver benefits—we deliver peace of mind.

With over 45 years of experience in the health and life insurance industry, Barry A. Riske is the founder and owner of Riske Brown & Associates. Barry began his career in the insurance field in 1975 after obtaining his Life & Health license through the Michigan Insurance Bureau. He initially located his business in Omena, MI, and later moved it to Suttons Bay, where Riske Brown & Associates was founded in 1996.
Throughout his career, Barry has partnered with top industry names, including NorthMed HMO (later merging with Priority Health in 1999) and BCBSM, allowing him to offer a wide range of Group Insurance products, Individual MediGap, MAPD policies, and ACA Health plans. Today, Barry holds licenses with over 22 leading insurance companies, including Aetna, BCBSM, Cigna, Humana, MetLife, and more, ensuring that his clients have access to a broad spectrum of insurance options tailored to their needs.

Barry’s dedication to the health and financial security of his clients is rooted in his belief that education is key. He takes pride in helping individuals understand the insurance products they purchase, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and life coverage.


Outside of the office, Barry enjoys an active lifestyle, with passions for boating, hiking, downhill skiing, snowmobiling, jet skiing, and biking. He is also an avid traveler and loves spending time with his family and friends.

With over 13 years of experience as an independent insurance agent and more than 30 years in sales, I specialize in helping individuals and groups find the right health insurance solutions. My focus areas include Individual Insurance, Medicare plans, and Group Health Insurance.
What truly sets my work apart is my commitment to customer service. Insurance can be overwhelming, and I take pride in simplifying complex information for my clients—putting it in plain English and helping each person understand their options clearly. Whether it's navigating a difficult claim or choosing the most practical coverage, I’m here to support my clients every step of the way.

As an independent agent, I have the flexibility to work with a wide range of products that best serve our local community. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping many individuals and families make informed decisions about their healthcare—something I consider the highlight of my career.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family. My wife and I are proud parents of three wonderful kids: a 22-year-old in college, an 18-year-old preparing for college, and a 14-year-old starting high school. Watching them grow, coaching them in sports, and just being part of their lives brings me great joy. We also love camping and look forward to more travel adventures in the years ahead.


Feel free to reach out anytime—I'm always happy to help!

With over 40 years of experience in the health insurance industry, Frank Smith is a trusted and knowledgeable resource for clients across Michigan. For 35 of those years, Frank served in key leadership roles at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, managing the northern Michigan sales and service team and overseeing operations at the Traverse City office. His tenure also included work as a Provider Consultant, where he was instrumental in maintaining and expanding BCBSM’s provider network.

Frank brings a deep understanding of healthcare funding and cost containment, offering expertise across both group and individual markets—including fully insured and self-funded plans. His strategic approach and industry insight help clients navigate the complexities of health insurance with confidence.


Known for his approachable, client-focused style, Frank takes the time to meet with each client personally to assess their specific healthcare needs and find tailored solutions that align with their goals.

Brianna Peterman is a driven and dedicated Health and Life Insurance Agent, licensed in Michigan. Though new to the insurance industry, she brings a wealth of experience and a strong entrepreneurial spirit, having successfully started and run a 5-star rated small business backed by the BBB for six years. This unique background gives her an edge in marketing, sales, and customer service skills that she now applies to helping clients navigate their insurance needs.

Brianna's approach is centered on building strong, trusting relationships. She is outgoing and personable and takes the time to ensure that her clients fully understand their options, helping them make informed decisions that leave them feeling confident in both their own choices and her expertise. She prides herself on her ability to connect with people and provide exceptional service with patience and clarity.

A lifelong learner, Brianna's diverse educational background allows her to quickly adapt to new challenges, ensuring that she can meet each individual or businesses unique needs with precision and care. Methodical, organized, and detail-oriented, Brianna is committed to delivering results that are both thorough and tailored to the individuals’ circumstances.


Outside of work, Brianna is an adventurous spirit who enjoys hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, downhill skiing, roller-skating, and biking. She is also a proud mother of four, living on a small hobby farm in Kingsley, MI, with her husband, five dogs, two horses, and a few chickens. Brianna’s love for her family and her strong work ethic drive her to always give her best, both personally and professionally.

With over 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, I specialize in commissions, billing, COBRA, and internal communications. My role includes managing office operations, handling billing and claims, and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. I’m passionate about finding practical solutions that make a real difference for both our clients and our team.

My journey in insurance began in Suttons Bay, where I worked as an agent and was first hired by Barry in the early 1990s. I left Riske, Brown around 2010 to explore new paths—running my own business and earning a few certifications along the way. While that chapter gave me invaluable experience, I eventually returned to the office, excited to step into a leadership role and enjoy a more balanced pace of life.


Outside of work, I love spending time on my property in Suttons Bay, where I care for a small hobby farm surrounded by beautiful landscaping. Whether I’m feeding animals, fixing fences, or adding new flowers to the garden, I find joy in maintaining a peaceful and creative environment.
I’m always looking to grow, learn, and support the success of our organization.

At Riske, Brown & Associates, we proudly serve businesses and individuals throughout the entire state of Michigan. With deep roots in the local communities we serve and a commitment to personalized support, we help clients from the bustling cities of Southeast Michigan to the scenic landscapes of the Upper Peninsula navigate insurance and benefit planning with confidence.



Whether you're in Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Marquette, or anywhere in between, our team brings the same high level of expertise, professionalism, and care. We understand the unique challenges faced across different regions of the state and are equipped to deliver solutions that meet your specific needs—no matter where you're located.