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One of the many blessings of being in our Atlanta Technology Community is I have the privilege of meeting a lot of very interesting people. Some become friends over the years and some become family. Jeff McConnell is a person who has become family to me. Jeff has gone out of his way time after time to help me, encourage me, and introduce me into his network.

Jeff McConnell is one of Atlanta’s leading advocates for the technology start-up community. Jeff is involved in mentoring, judging presentations, and coaching young entrepreneurs as they launch their companies. Although Jeff is a die hard Florida Gator, he shares his passion for Georgia Tech and all of the great innovation that come from the ATDC and other Georgia Tech programs.  In addition, Jeff has been a senior executive in the payments space for many years.

I first began spending quality time with Jeff at his home where he hosts a once a month wine tasting. Jeff hosts the event, cooks all the food, and his wonderful family drop in to say hello to the guests. Jeff does this at no cost to anyone other than Jeff. He is a giver and a creator of opportunities for others. In this informal gathering people have found new jobs, business has been transacted, introductions to capital or talent have occurred and great friendships have developed.

You will learn a great deal by listening to this interview. If you ever have the opportunity to meet or hear Jeff speak, drop what you are doing and go to that event. I promise it will be worth every minute of your time.

Thank you for being such a great friend to me and to our technology start-up community, Jeff!