Roth IRA Conversions
Evaluate whether converting traditional IRA assets to a Roth IRA may reduce future tax exposure, increase retirement income flexibility, and support long-term legacy planning goals.
Explore Roth conversion strategies through Michigan wealth management guidance designed to help align retirement income, taxes, Medicare considerations, and long-term wealth goals. Barking Sands Capital helps Michigan clients evaluate conversion timing, tax-bracket opportunities, legacy planning priorities, and portfolio fit through an independent, fee-based process built around clarity, coordination, and your destination.
Coordinated Roth, tax, retirement, and wealth management services designed for thoughtful long-term planning.
Evaluate whether converting traditional IRA assets to a Roth IRA may reduce future tax exposure, increase retirement income flexibility, and support long-term legacy planning goals.
Build a retirement income plan that coordinates Social Security, required minimum distributions, investment accounts, and Roth conversion timing for a more durable retirement strategy.
Integrate tax projections, AMT considerations, business-owner strategies, and retirement decisions so conversion recommendations are viewed within your complete tax picture.
Unify legal, insurance, tax, retirement, and investment planning through Barking Sands Capital’s coordinated InteProcess™ for more complete decision-making.
Transition retirement savings from a former employer plan into a tailored strategy that may create clearer options for investment management and future Roth conversion analysis.
Assess how conversion income may affect Medicare premiums, IRMAA thresholds, and long-term care planning so retirement healthcare costs remain part of the strategy.
We begin by reviewing retirement accounts, taxable investments, pension income, Social Security timing, and Michigan-specific planning considerations. This creates a clear baseline for identifying whether Roth conversion opportunities may exist without disrupting your spending needs.
Barking Sands Capital is a solution-based firm that pairs independent guidance and planning depth with personal attention for Michigan Roth conversion decisions.
Independent RIA structure supports transparent, fee-based advice without pushing financial products.
CFP® and ChFC credentials bring disciplined expertise to Michigan retirement and tax planning decisions.
The InteProcess™ coordinates tax, retirement, insurance, legal, and investment planning into one seamless event.
With roots in Troy and the Upper Peninsula, the team understands Midwest retirement priorities.
Meet the advisors behind your coordinated planning strategy.
Principal, ChFC
JB L'Esperance is a co-founder and Principal of Barking Sands Capital (The L'Esperance Group, LLC), holding the prestigious Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designation. With a career that began right out of college in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, JB has built deep expertise in investment management, retirement analysis, estate planning, and small business planning. Licensed in life and health insurance in both Michigan and Minnesota, he has maintained lasting relationships with many of his earliest clients — a testament to his commitment to delivering excellent service and real value. The oldest of six siblings, JB developed strong teamwork and family values early, qualities that define his client-first advisory approach. He and his wife Kelly reside in Independence, Minnesota, where they continue growing their Midwest financial planning practice.
Principal
Kelly C. L'Esperance is a co-founder and Principal of Barking Sands Capital (The L'Esperance Group, LLC), bringing a strong background in investment services, fixed income investing, retirement and education planning, and investment portfolio management. With five years of experience at one of the nation's largest commercial banks, Kelly joined her husband and business partner JB to build an independent, fee-based advisory firm grounded in putting clients' needs above all else. Growing up in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where her family ran small resort businesses, Kelly developed an entrepreneurial spirit and deep appreciation for personalized service. Kelly resides in Independence, Minnesota, with JB and their two children.
Advisor
Curtis Hewitt is an Advisor with Barking Sands Capital, specializing in Medicare Planning and Long Term Care. Based in Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Curtis brings a dynamic entrepreneurial career to his advisory role, having successfully started, managed, and sold multiple businesses throughout his professional life. He is also co-founder of MSIS Agency. Curtis holds a degree in Architectural Design from Lansing Community College and a Business Management degree from Colorado Technical University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He holds Life and Health insurance licenses along with Series 6 and Series 63 registrations. A dedicated community servant, Curtis has served as president of a local Women's Shelter, school board member, and co-founder of a youth mountain biking program. He resides in Marquette with his wife and four children.
Client Relationship Manager
Tara Handy is the Client Relationship Manager at Barking Sands Capital, bringing more than two decades of experience in the financial services industry. She specializes in client service, account management, and operational support, ensuring that both advisors and clients receive responsive, accurate, and professional assistance. Tara holds Series 7 and Series 63 securities registrations, Life and Health Insurance licenses, and is a commissioned Notary Public. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Gardner-Webb University. Known for building strong, lasting relationships, Tara is dedicated to making every client interaction seamless and reliable. She resides in western North Carolina with her husband and three children, and values hard work, strong relationships, and serving others in every aspect of her life.
CFP®
Andrea Cervena is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with Barking Sands Capital, bringing over 20 years of financial industry experience spanning three continents and multiple sectors including banking, real estate, hospitality, and sports. She holds a BA in International Business and Business Administration from Minot State University and an MA in International Relations from the International University of Japan. Since 2020, Andrea has focused exclusively on personal finance, earning her CFP® designation and assisting clients with Tax Planning, Estate Planning, Retirement Planning, Education Funding, and Budgeting. Her service-oriented approach and global perspective allow her to craft creative, tailored financial solutions. Outside of work, Andrea is an active volleyball official, cycling community ambassador, and Masters Ski Racing board member.
Roth conversions may still make sense at older ages when the tax tradeoff supports your goals, such as reducing future required minimum distributions, creating tax-free legacy assets, or managing a surviving spouse’s tax exposure. They may be less attractive when the upfront tax cost is too high, funds are needed soon, or conversion income would create Medicare IRMAA surcharges that outweigh the benefit.
Get clear answers before making a taxable retirement decision.
Recognized standard for comprehensive financial planning.
Advanced credential in financial consulting strategies.
Licensed support for retirement and insurance planning.
Share your retirement goals, current account mix, and tax concerns. Barking Sands Capital will help you evaluate whether a Roth conversion strategy belongs in your broader Michigan wealth management plan.
For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at 952-500-8854. You can also send us a quick email at jb@barkingsandscapital.com.
For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at 952-500-8854. You can also send us a quick email at jb@barkingsandscapital.com.