Key Takeaways Mancasola used Kickstarter to help launch his Calabrian chili hot sauce brand MOTO in February of this year.
He approaches growth differently because of his music background — and is eyeing $180,000 revenue next year.
This Side Hustle Spotlight Q&A features San Francisco, California-based entrepreneur Colby Mancasola, 54. Mancasola used Kickstarter to launch his Calabrian chili hot sauce brand MOTO as a side hustle earlier this year. Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
Image Credit: Courtesy of MOTO. Colby Mancasola.
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What was your day job or primary occupation when you started your side hustle?
I was senior director of digital strategy and insights at a luxury home goods brand when I launched MOTO as a side hustle. I have since left and am consulting part-time while I grow the brand. I am also in an indie rock band from the ’90s called Knapsack that still tours and plays festivals sporadically.
Related: This 31-Year-Old Ex-Microsoft Worker Used $3,000 to Start a Side Hustle — Now the Product’s in Erewhon and Eyeing $1 Million in Revenue
When did you start your side hustle, and where did you find the inspiration for it?
I launched a Kickstarter campaign in February of 2025 and then went live to the public in June.
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