Phil McNeil, Jr. was born on May 23, 1975, in South Carolina.  He is the oldest son of Philip and Betty McNeil's three children.  Growing up from humble beginning, Phil's parents taught him that success takes sacrifice, patience, planning, and prayer.  He grew up never forgetting the encouragement, morals and values his parent instituted in their home.

After graduating from W.J. Keenan High School in Columbia, SC, Phil went on to study at Oakwood University, South Carolina State University and received his bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Benedict College May of 2003.

Mr. McNeil founded 1BrightStar Media, LLC. to provide opportunities for small businesses to have an internet presence.  Since its inception in November 1999, the firm has launched and maintained many websites in North Carolina, Maryland, Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, New York, Ohio, Mississippi, Virginia, Louisiana, Illinois, New Jersey, District of Columbia, and California.