Episode #117
Transforming Systems: Kim Tercero on Leadership, Technology, and Social Impact
Are you trying to grow a mission-driven organization without losing sight of your values and purpose? In this inspiring episode of Your American Dream, host Anisha Jennings sits down with Kim Tercero, Founder and Principal of Tercero Solutions, an Indigenous, Latine/x, and woman-owned consulting firm specializing in technology, operations, and organizational capacity for social enterprises, nonprofits, startups, and mission-driven businesses. With more than 30 years of experience across the nonprofit, social enterprise, startup, and small business sectors, Kim shares how organizations can use technology, strategic thinking, and values-driven leadership to build sustainable systems and create lasting impact — without sacrificing their mission. About the Guest Kim Tercero is the Founder and Principal of Tercero Solutions, where she helps social enterprises, nonprofit organizations, startups, and mission-driven businesses strengthen their technology strategies, operational systems, and organizational capacity. With more than three decades of experience, Kim combines strategic thinking with empathy, collaboration, courage, and authenticity to help organizations grow in ways that remain aligned with their purpose and values. As a detribalized Nahua Pipil and K'iche Maya woman and the daughter of immigrant parents, Kim is deeply committed to equitable technology, Indigenous leadership, rematriating the economy, and creating opportunities for historically marginalized communities. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why mission-driven organizations need strong technology and operational strategies to create lasting impact Kim’s approach to building sustainable systems without compromising organizational values How ethical technology and systems thinking can support nonprofits and social enterprises The connection between Indigenous leadership, community impact, and organizational development Practical ways entrepreneurs and changemakers can build organizations rooted in service and purpose The importance of organizational capacity, operational excellence, and sustainable growth Episode Outline Introduction — Kim Tercero: (00:53) Early Life & Immigrant Family: (02:02) Education, Activism & Community: (04:18) Advice on Higher Education: (05:58) Finding a Path into Technology: (09:59) Women in Tech & Learning with Curiosity: (15:19) Building Tercero Solutions: (17:23) Digital Security for Mission-Driven Organizations: (21:07) Practical Steps for Better Digital Security: (24:04) Trust, Access & Security Culture: (26:13) What the American Dream Means Today: (27:59) Closing Reflections: (29:37) Connect with Kim Tercero Want to learn more about Kim’s work or connect with her directly? Website → https://www.tercerosolutions.com/ Email → kim@tercerosolutions.com LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-tercero/ Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/tercerosoluxns/ Closing Inspiration Meaningful innovation isn't just about technology — it's about centering people, relationships, community, and purpose in the way we build. If you’re a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, consultant, or changemaker looking to grow your organization while staying true to your mission, this episode will inspire you to think differently about technology, leadership, sustainability, and social impact. Ways to Work with Me (Anisha Jennings) Website → https://jenningstechcorner.com/packages/ Book a Free Strategy Call → https://cal.com/anishajennings Email → jenningstechcorner@gmail.com Follow me on Instagram → @jenningstechcorner Loved this episode? Your reviews help this podcast grow and reach more amazing listeners! If today’s conversation inspired you, please leave a quick rating & review — it means the world.
