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Meet The Hosts
ASHLEY WATERS
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JEFF CHESEBROUGH
Meet The Hosts
Ashley Waters is an award-winning non-profit leader, former Liberal candidate, and political commentator with over 15 years of experience spanning the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. She brings a thoughtful and balanced perspective to political discourse, grounded in her frontline experience in community leadership, governance, and public policy.
Ashley has built a career driving community impact, strengthening partnerships, and advancing initiatives that support youth engagement and civic participation. In her role as a Relationship Manager with Scouts Canada, she has worked closely with volunteers and community leaders across multiple regions to deliver high-quality programming and foster leadership development.
Recognized with the Medal of Merit for her contributions to community building, Ashley is also a trusted voice on governance, government relations, and strategic collaboration. As a commentator on The News Forum, she offers informed, practical insights on current affairs, policy, and the evolving political landscape in Canada.
Jeff is a growth strategist, commercialization leader, and trusted advisor with more than two decades of experience helping startups, scale-ups, investors, and organizations accelerate growth through capital access, strategic partnerships, and innovation-driven execution.
As Chief Operating Officer of Vertical Data Inc. (OTCQB: VDTA), Jeff oversees operational readiness across the Vertical Data network. A Chartered Director with more than two decades of leadership experience in innovation, governance, commercialization, and organizational development, he brings institutional-grade operational discipline to the buildout and management of high-density AI infrastructure while supporting the company's broader growth, strategic partnerships, and execution priorities. Best known for his 17-year tenure as CEO of Innovate Niagara, Jeff played a leading role in building Niagara’s innovation ecosystem and supporting the growth of hundreds of technology and innovation-focused companies.
In addition to his business and advisory work, Jeff has expanded into media and public discourse as co-host of The Party Lines on The News Forum — a political commentary and current affairs program focused on civil discourse, public policy, and the exchange of diverse perspectives on issues shaping Canada’s future.
Jeff has served on several prominent boards, including Meridian Credit Union, CAA Niagara, and Innovate Niagara, currently serves as a Director at N13 Investments Inc. and advisor to a number of growth-stage ventures and investment initiatives.
His contributions to business and community leadership have earned numerous recognitions, including being named a Senator by Junior Chamber International — the organization’s highest honour — and receiving the Alumni of Distinction Award from Brock University. Jeff holds the Chartered Director (C.Dir.) designation and has also completed the Canadian Council of Innovators’ Innovation Governance Program.