In this episode of Founders Future, with host Ammar Elm, we sit down with Todd Nilson, founder of Clocktower Advisors, as he shares his journey from agency strategist to independent consultant specializing in online community building. Todd reveals how a personal need for flexibility to care for aging parents led him to launch his consultancy, where he now helps B2B companies and nonprofits create engaging digital spaces that foster authentic connections. With refreshing honesty, he discusses overcoming the mental hurdles of entrepreneurship, the importance of outsourcing early, and why he's built his business primarily through warm networking rather than cold outreach—a philosophy rooted in his belief in human-centered connections.

Todd breaks down his unique approach to community strategy, explaining how he helps organizations either launch new digital communities or revive struggling ones through customized 3-6 month engagements. He shares exciting details about his new venture, Talent Led—a SaaS platform aiming to humanize the hiring process—and reflects on lessons learned over nearly a decade in business, including the value of leaning into business development sooner. For any consultant wrestling with scalability or professionals interested in the future of digital communities, Todd offers practical wisdom about maintaining quality while growing strategically.