Active Management
Research-backed portfolio oversight focused on adapting to market conditions, selecting opportunities, and managing risk so your investments remain aligned with long-term objectives and changing cash-flow needs.
Proactive Wealth Management — Dynamic Portfolio Strategies from Barking Sands Capital helps investors move beyond set-it-and-forget-it planning. With active investment management, integrated retirement and tax coordination, and risk-aware portfolio design, the firm builds strategies aligned with your values, goals, and changing market conditions—delivering sophisticated guidance with the transparency and attention of a personal advisor today.

Explore coordinated portfolio and planning services designed to manage risk, pursue growth, and align wealth with personal goals.
Research-backed portfolio oversight focused on adapting to market conditions, selecting opportunities, and managing risk so your investments remain aligned with long-term objectives and changing cash-flow needs.
Sophisticated asset management with portfolio analysis, diversification strategies, separately managed accounts, and core equity selections designed to balance return potential with your tolerance for risk.
Integrated planning that coordinates legal, insurance, tax, retirement, and investment decisions through a seamless process designed to keep your full financial picture working together.
Retirement analysis, distribution strategies, rollover support, and income planning help align your investment portfolio with the lifestyle and security you want in retirement.
Strategic tax coordination addresses retirement distributions, business owner strategies, AMT planning, and investment decisions to help reduce avoidable tax drag over time.
Guidance on Roth IRA conversions helps evaluate timing, tax impact, and long-term growth potential so retirement assets can be positioned more efficiently.
Markets change, and your financial strategy should be prepared to respond. Barking Sands Capital combines active investment management with broader financial planning, helping clients coordinate portfolios, retirement income, taxes, insurance, and legacy priorities. As an independent, fee-based Registered Investment Advisor, the firm focuses on transparency, disciplined risk management, and strategies designed around your destination—not product sales.

Barking Sands Capital is a solution-based firm that pairs active portfolio management and planning depth with a client-first advisory structure for dynamic wealth strategies.
Independent RIA structure supports transparent portfolio guidance focused on your objectives, not product quotas.
InteProcess™ coordinates investment, legal, insurance, tax, and retirement considerations into one planning conversation.
Midwest-rooted advisors provide sophisticated investment guidance with the flexibility and attention of a personal advisor.
Credentialed professionals bring CFP®, ChFC, securities, and insurance experience to complex wealth decisions.
Experienced advisors coordinating investment, retirement, and planning decisions.

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.
For a 70-year-old, the “best” investment is usually not a single product but a diversified strategy built around income needs, risk tolerance, health care costs, taxes, and legacy goals. Many retirees need a blend of liquidity, stable income, and growth potential. Barking Sands Capital evaluates the full financial picture before recommending portfolio changes or retirement distribution strategies.
Get thoughtful answers from a credentialed advisory team.
Recognized standard for comprehensive financial planning.
Advanced credential in financial consulting strategies.
Independent advisory structure with transparent compensation.
Share your goals, concerns, and timeline. The Barking Sands Capital team will help you understand the next steps for a personalized portfolio strategy.
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.