Dena’s Day
Blossoming as a tribute to the vibrant, caring legacy of our late Bethesda board member, Dena Eichelberger.
“Dena’s Day” is designed to empower joyful learning through a day of continuing education for Bethesda staff.
The day will be filled with speakers and entertainment for our team members, as was Dena’s wish to enhance the lives of those who live Bethesda’s mission of “Serving others together in faith, community, and life.”
2025 Date: June 11, 2025. See below for this year’s speakers!
Tim Eggebraaten is a speaker, musician, and retired police chief who is passionate about helping individuals and organizations navigate the challenges of leadership, stress management, and personal growth. With a law enforcement career spanning decades, he has firsthand experience with the mental and emotional demands of high-pressure roles. Now, through his Off Duty Chief platform, he shares his insights on resilience, leadership, and well-being, offering a unique blend of storytelling, humor, and music to inspire audiences.
His presentations focus on the power of self-awareness, emotional resilience, and strong leadership. Tim believes that true strength comes from understanding oneself, managing stress effectively, and fostering meaningful connections. Through engaging discussions, real-life experiences, and interactive elements, he helps individuals and teams develop practical strategies for improving communication, strengthening relationships, and maintaining balance in their personal and professional lives.
With an authentic and relatable approach, Tim creates an environment where people feel empowered to reflect, grow, and take action. Whether speaking to first responders, corporate teams, or community organizations, he tailors each session to fit the needs of his audience, ensuring they walk away with valuable tools for long-term success.
Tim’s passion for leadership and personal development has impacted countless individuals, helping them step into their best selves—both on and off duty. More information on his speaking engagements, music, and coaching can be found on his website.
Alfredo Contreras
Jalfia Coaching and Consulting
Alfredo Contreras, MSW, LGSW, LADC, is a life coach, speaker, and motivator dedicated to helping individuals unlock their full potential. With a background in social work, mental health, and addiction counseling, he brings a deep understanding of personal transformation and resilience. As the founder of Jalfia Coaching and Consulting, he empowers people to embrace their identities, overcome obstacles, and create meaningful change in their lives.
His presentation, Unleashing the Power of Identity: Empowering Self-Transformation, explores the profound impact of self-identity on both personal and professional growth. Alfredo believes that by reshaping self-narratives, individuals can increase resilience, deepen empathy, and bring greater authenticity to their work and relationships. Through reflective exercises and powerful coaching techniques, participants learn to break through limiting beliefs, uncover their core strengths, and reconnect with their purpose.
With an engaging and supportive approach, Alfredo creates a space for deep self-exploration and empowerment. His sessions are designed to inspire lasting transformation, equipping attendees with the tools to not only enhance their own growth but also positively influence those around them. Whether through a single workshop or an ongoing development program, he tailors his work to meet the unique needs of individuals and organizations alike.
Alfredo’s passion for personal growth and self-discovery has guided countless people toward greater confidence, fulfillment, and success.
You might not know this from a quick glance at his website, but Jerrid Sebesta’s life has been a tapestry of challenges and transformations. Born into the complexity of divorced parents, he grew up in a trailer home amidst the quiet landscapes of rural Minnesota. Summers were an escape to Wyoming and Colorado, bonding with his father amidst nature’s vastness.
From an early age, Jerrid felt like a by-product of the world’s chaos, wrestling with deep-seated insecurities that led him down the path of chronic perfectionism. This drive pushed him to play college basketball as a walk-on at the University of North Dakota, seeking validation and happiness in achievements.
Climbing the career ladder, Jerrid landed a high-profile TV job. On the surface, it seemed like he had it all, but behind the scenes, happiness eluded him. He felt like the world was only getting 15% of him at his worst moments, yearning for something more meaningful.
Amidst this turmoil, he made a bold move, quitting his job and relocating during the COVID pandemic. This upheaval expanded his family, a silver lining from what he describes as a “flagpole moment.”
Transitioning from the hustle of city life and demanding schedules, Jerrid now embraces the quietude of a hobby farm with his growing family. Some might call it a midlife crisis, but to him, it’s a journey of rediscovery.
As he matures, Jerrid’s perspective on life and time has evolved. He’s learned that life shouldn’t be lived with a “someday” mentality. If there’s something he wants to do, whether it’s starting a business or visiting family, he knows the time to act is now.
For Jerrid, happiness isn’t a destination but a present journey. He’s discovered that to truly experience life, one must live it undeferred. So, he invites you to join him on this transformative journey, embracing the here and now.
Jerrid and his wife, Emily, live in the Willmar area with their 4 kids.
Kristen Brown is the creator of The Energy Effect and the 7 Energies Program, a dynamic approach to enhancing workplace engagement, communication, and collaboration. With a background in leadership development and personal growth, she is passionate about helping teams create meaningful connections and a more positive, energized work environment. Her program, which includes the popular Energy Bingo, is designed to be both fun and actionable, giving participants simple yet effective tools to improve interactions with colleagues, residents, patients, and families.
Her signature program, The Energy Effect: Create a Culture of Care and Collaboration, is tailored for senior living care teams like Bethesda’s. Through the 7 Energies Framework—Vision, Strategy, Communication, Relationships, Confidence, Creativity, and Motivation—Kristen provides practical strategies that inspire teamwork, foster engagement, and enhance the overall workplace experience. She understands the unique challenges faced by caregivers and staff in senior living and offers solutions that promote well-being, resilience, and stronger professional relationships.
With a blend of heartfelt storytelling, hands-on exercises, and humor, Kristen creates an interactive experience that resonates with participants. Her engaging approach helps teams discover how aligning these seven energies can strengthen team dynamics, enhance care, and drive meaningful results. She works closely with organizations to customize each session based on their specific needs, whether through a single workshop or an ongoing program that incorporates additional media and book elements to reinforce positivity and accountability.
Kristen’s work has helped countless professionals cultivate a healthier, more collaborative work environment. She is committed to making personal and professional growth accessible, enjoyable, and impactful. More information on her programs and topics can be found on her website.
Dena's Day: A Team Enrichment Event 2025
Please register by May 27, 2025 – Join us for as many sessions as you can! Whether it’s one or all six, each one offers valuable insights and inspiration.
