People of Troy

Interview with Jamel Mosely - Owner of Whiskey Pickle, cofounder of Collectiveffort and Upstate's Cold Brew, and Downtown Troy BID Board Member.

What does success look like for you here in Troy?

Success is something I’ve thought about for a long time— what it really means to be successful. Here in Troy, and more broadly, it comes down to doing what I love and being able to live comfortably. And comfort looks different for everyone. For some, it means being debt-free. For others, it’s having health insurance, stable housing, maybe a two-bedroom apartment— whatever that sense of security looks like. For me, success is about building sustainable businesses in Troy that not only support me, but also create jobs for others. It’s about being happy, not constantly stressed, overextended, or exhausted.

What are you most passionate about?

I love building space— creating space for people. A lot of what I do is about building community and creating an ecosystem where people can succeed, not just myself, but others too. We talk a lot about it at Collectiveffort. How do we create opportunities for creatives, for young people, for those just starting out, or even those looking to pivot later in their careers? How do we build spaces— physical and within industries— where people can thrive and pursue their own version of success? At the core of it, I’m always thinking about how to make people feel comfortable. Comfortable to be themselves, to create, to gather. Whether it’s here at The Pickle or beyond, I’m constantly thinking about how to shape spaces that are fun, safe, and community-driven. Working in the bar industry, you’re always navigating certain challenges. So for me, it’s about continuously questioning the space— what it is, what it could be— and making intentional decisions that prioritize people’s experience and safety. And I don’t do that alone. I’m always talking with patrons, staff, and others in the industry— not just in Troy, but in nearby cities like Albany. I was recently added to Albany’s nightlife commission, where I serve on committees focused on public safety and operational processes. It’s all part of trying to improve the spaces where people live, work, and gather.