About Brian Johnson

Hi, I’m Brian Johnson, founder of Clarity Consulting. With over 24 years of experience in finance and planning, I help individuals and families bring clarity to complex decisions so they can move forward with confidence and purpose.

My work focuses on two areas:

• Coaching individuals and families who want to take control of their finances and approach retirement with intention
• Guiding families of loved ones with disabilities through the Special Needs Planning process, so they have a clear, person-centered path to live their best lives

The north shore of Lake Superior

Why this work matters to me

My family and I live near Duluth, Minnesota, and like many families, our lives once felt overwhelmingly busy and complex. Everything changed when we became more focused and organized.

We created a plan to pay down debt, celebrated milestones along the way, and experienced the relief and pride that comes from making steady progress together. The result was more time, more space, and a greater ability to prioritize what truly matters.

As parents of a child with disabilities, we also created a Special Needs Plan for our son – one that documents his goals, supports, and a clear path to live a full and meaningful life. Having a solid plan for him, along with a clear view of our own retirement, brings a sens of calm and confidence that is hared to overstate.

That lived experience is at the heart of how I work with families today.

My education and experience:

• B. S. in Corporate Finance – Minnesota State University, Mankato
• Chartered Special Needs Consultant – The American College of Financial Services
• Financial Coach – Financial Coach Academy
• Partners in Policymaking – Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities
• Creator of TheSpecialNeedsPlan.com
• Parent of a child with disabilities – 21 years
• Military Service (Marine Corps, Army National Guard) – 20 years
• Finance and Pricing (IBM, Watson Health, Merative) – 24 years

Pebble Beach on Lake Superior