Quality. Transparency. Accessibility.

LeBaron Wealth Advisory Group

James S LeBaron

James LeBaron

Senior Vice President/Investments

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E-Mail Address

[email protected]

Phone Number

(941) 329-6264

About Me

I joined Stifel in 2016, drawn by the firm’s commitment to crafting personalized strategies that align with clients’ financial and investment aspirations. Over the course of my 30-plus-year career in the investment industry, I have catered to individuals, businesses, institutions, and nonprofit organizations, shaping a philosophy grounded in fostering intimate, attentive relationships and providing tailored service.

My journey in the investment industry began in 1992, following a tenure as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy, serving aboard USS SPRUANCE (DD 963), where I deployed in direct support of Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. My academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the University of Missouri – Columbia. Originally from Kansas, I have proudly called the Sarasota area home since 1994.

Beyond my professional life, I find joy in pursuits like cycling, tennis, fishing, and engaging in the fine art of barbecue.

CA State License

0M77817

headshot of Brendan Ward, Financial Advisor

Brendan Ward

Financial Advisor

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E-Mail Address

[email protected]

Phone Number

(941) 329-6280

About Me

As for Brendan, he joined Stifel in 2021 and plays a pivotal role as a Financial Advisor with LeBaron Wealth Advisory Group. Brendan contributes to the team’s mission by crafting and maintaining tailored wealth management plans for clients and implementing investment strategies that align with their goals. He dives deep into his clients’ retirement and estate planning needs, addresses insurance considerations, and can collaborate closely with their legal and tax advisors to create comprehensive plans. Additionally, Brendan specializes in assisting business owners with advanced retirement and tax planning strategies, with a particular focus on cash balance plans.

Brendan made the move to Sarasota, Florida, in 2021 from the Washington, DC area, where he honed his skills at the world’s largest credit union, Navy Federal Credit Union. His roles there included serving as an Investment Portfolio Analyst and Money Market Trader within the capital markets division.

Brendan grew up in East Islip, New York, where he spent his college summers as a water taxi captain for Fire Island Ferries. He holds a B.S.B.A. in Finance from the University of Rhode Island and holds Series 7 and 66 securities licenses, as well as life, health, and variable insurance licenses. During his leisure time, Brendan finds enjoyment in pursuits such as ice hockey, surfing, and golf.

headshot of Shonna Parker

Shonna Parker

Registered Client Service Associate

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E-Mail Address

[email protected]

Phone Number

(941) 329-6276

About Me

Shonna joined Stifel in 2022 and quickly became an instrumental member of the team. Having previous experience in a client-facing role at a prominent retail company during her college years equipped her with problem-solving and proactive skills that she now leverages to deliver high-end support to the team. Shonna grew up in Sarasota, Florida, where she earned a B.S. in Finance from University of South Florida.

Shonna handles a wide range of complex administrative and operational duties, including client onboarding, communication, online enrollment, banking, and cash management tasks. One of Shonna’s top priorities is building and maintaining strong client relationships, which she seeks to achieve through effective communication and a high level of responsiveness. Outside of the office, she enjoys the beach and spending quality time with friends and family.