Retirement Planning
Comprehensive retirement analysis covering income needs, asset distribution, risk management, tax coordination, and future lifestyle goals, integrated into a practical plan for long-term financial confidence.
Find clear retirement guidance from Barking Sands Capital, an independent, fee-based advisory team serving clients across Minnesota, Michigan, and the Midwest. From 401(k) rollovers and Roth IRA conversions to Medicare and long-term care planning, we coordinate the moving pieces so your income, taxes, investments, and healthcare choices support the retirement you want with confidence every day.
Integrated retirement services built around income, investments, tax strategy, healthcare, and long-term protection.
Comprehensive retirement analysis covering income needs, asset distribution, risk management, tax coordination, and future lifestyle goals, integrated into a practical plan for long-term financial confidence.
Guidance for transferring retirement savings from employer plans into a tailored strategy, helping simplify accounts while considering fees, investment options, tax treatment, and income needs.
Tax-aware Roth conversion planning designed to evaluate timing, taxable income impact, long-term tax-free growth potential, and coordination with Medicare surcharge thresholds.
Personalized support navigating Medicare enrollment windows, plan options, coverage costs, and healthcare decisions so retirement medical planning fits your broader financial strategy.
Planning for future care needs, asset protection, and IRMAA considerations, helping clients prepare for healthcare uncertainty while protecting retirement income and family goals.
Strategic tax coordination that connects retirement withdrawals, Roth conversions, business owner strategies, AMT considerations, and investment decisions into one integrated plan.
We begin by learning what retirement means to you, including desired lifestyle, family priorities, income expectations, risk comfort, and legacy goals. For Midwest clients, we also consider seasonal living plans, state tax exposure, and healthcare access needs.
Barking Sands Capital is a solution-based firm that pairs independent advice and transparent planning with coordinated retirement plan consulting expertise.
Fee-based guidance designed around client needs, not product-driven recommendations or commissions on managed accounts.
Retirement, tax, insurance, legal, and investment planning are coordinated through a seamless team-based approach.
CFP® and ChFC professionals support Midwest families with disciplined, credentialed retirement planning guidance.
Offices in Minnesota and Michigan provide personal support for clients across the broader Midwest.
Meet the professionals behind your retirement 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.
The $1,000 a month rule is a simple retirement income estimate suggesting that every $240,000 in savings may generate about $1,000 per month using a 5% annual withdrawal rate. It is only a rough guideline. Your sustainable income depends on taxes, investment returns, inflation, healthcare costs, Social Security, pension income, and how your portfolio is allocated.
Get thoughtful answers from a credentialed retirement planning team.
Recognized standard for comprehensive financial planning.
Advanced credential in financial consulting and strategy.
Transparent advisory model focused on client objectives.
Share your goals, timeline, and planning concerns. Our team will help identify the next best step for your retirement 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.