Meet Michael Duchesne, Our Managing Editor
Michael Duchesne
Managing Editor
12+ Years ExperienceMike Duchesne is the Managing Editor at Covers, where he has led a team of writers and editors since 2020, focusing on honest, high-impact content across the sports betting and online casino space. With expertise in the North American gambling industry, Duchesne focuses on creating content that puts players first, clarifying complex topics, promoting transparency, and holding operators accountable. He’s known for his clear-eyed storytelling, editorial precision, and commitment to producing accurate, trustworthy reviews that help readers make informed decisions.
What makes Michael an expert?
Experience
Before joining Covers, Mike held editorial roles at MTV Networks, Institutional Investor, and Travelzoo, where he developed a strong foundation in digital content, audience engagement, and brand storytelling.
Over his media and online publishing career, Duchesne has created performance-driven content for global brands like bet365, Disney, Formula 1, and Fairmont, helping bridge the gap between audience trust and business success.
Covers.com
- Managing Editor
- November 2024 – Present
- Best Sportsbook Promos
- Publication
- DraftKings Promo Code
- Publication
- Content Manager
- November 2022 – October 2023
- Best Betting Sites
- Publication
- Sr. Content Editor
- September 2021 – November 2022
- Content Editor
- October 2020 – August 2021
Travelzoo
- Publisher
- February 2013 – June 2018
- MasterChef Eric Chong Makes His Mark
- Publication
- We’re Riding Shotgun on ‘Chuck & Danny’s Road Trip’
- Publication
Education
Mike Duchesne holds a B.A. in Political Science from Concordia University, complemented by certificates in Public Relations from McGill University and E-Business & Web Marketing from the University of Toronto. His studies included academic terms abroad in Italy and Wales, enriching his global perspective and communication skills.
University of Toronto, Toronto
- Certificate, E-Business & Web Marketing
- June 2010 - August 2010
Concordia University, Montreal
- Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
- September 2001 - December 2004
Centro Linguistico Dante Alighieri, Florence, Italy
- Italian Language Studies
- July 2001
University of Wales, Swansea, UK
- March 2003 - June 2003
5+ years in iGaming
Mike has 5+ years in sports betting and iGaming, with a focus on crafting accurate, high-quality content that stands out for its clarity and credibility.
Multiple jurisdictions
Mike brings a nuanced understanding of regional markets, regulatory landscapes, and localized content strategies.
Diverse experience
Mike brings diverse experience spanning editorial leadership, content strategy and storytelling, shaped by roles in publishing, and media.
Passion for content
Driven by a passion for writing and editing, Mike crafts clear, compelling content that informs, engages, and delivers real value to readers.
How does Mike stay up to date?
Duchesne stays current by closely following industry developments, regularly reading coverage from in-house journalists like Geoff Zochodne and Ryan Butler, and engaging with regulatory updates, market trends, and operator news.
Industry News
Covers’ industry news team has its pulse on the iGaming sector, publishing stories in real time while providing readers with well-balanced and informed content.
Vixio
I leverage Vixio to navigate and stay informed on constantly evolving gambling regulations across 180+ jurisdictions, empowering smarter decisions and minimizing compliance risks.
Q&A with Mike Duchesne
What got you into writing about sports betting and casino sites?
I’ve always had a passion for sports, from playing and watching to attending events and, of course, betting on them. Combining that enthusiasm with my interest in the casino industry felt like a natural fit. Writing about sports and casino sites allows me to combine my passion for the game with my expertise in content creation, providing readers with valuable insights and staying ahead of trends in this dynamic industry.
Did you play sports growing up?
I played a lot of sports when I was younger and still dabble to a degree. Soccer was my main focus. I was a goalie and backstopped several successful teams. I also played basketball, football, rugby, and tennis, and spent a lot of time skiing in the winters. Sports have always been a significant part of my life, teaching me discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
What do you look for in a sportsbook?
I focus on a few key things: Competitive odds that offer real value, a wide range of markets across sports and bet types, and strong safeguards, like responsible gambling tools and secure payment options, that build trust and protect players. A clean, responsive interface and reliable customer support also go a long way.
What’s your best advice for sports bettors?
Stick to your limits, avoid chasing losses, and remember, loyalty belongs in the stands, not at the sportsbook. Betting with your heart is the fastest way to drain your bankroll.
I lean on prop projections to uncover +EV plays. It’s a powerful tool, especially when paired with the large selection of picks from experienced bettors, allowing you to spot value easily.
Mike's areas of expertise
Duchesne’s expertise lies in staying ahead of legal developments, tracking sports betting and iGaming legislation, and aligning content with what users actually want, especially when it comes to betting on the sports and markets he knows best. Whether it’s the strategy behind NFL props or the pace of live tennis betting, it’s the thrill of reading the game that keeps him hooked.
Content expertise
Mike specializes in crafting user-first, high-quality content that informs, engages, and earns trust. His experience spans content planning, promotion-focused storytelling, and adapting content for diverse audiences, all grounded in clarity and accuracy.
State betting guides
Duchesne specializes in creating accurate and timely state betting guides, ensuring each reflects the latest legal updates, operator availability, and regulatory nuances. His content is designed to support readers navigating new or evolving markets with clarity and confidence.
Operator Promos
Mike also focuses on crafting clear, compelling operator promo content that highlights real value for bettors. From welcome bonuses to ongoing offers, Duchesne emphasizes transparency and competitive positioning that aligns with player needs and expectations.
Mike's memories
🚀 Big Win
Mike’s first major futures win came in 2022, when he backed Brian Daboll at +1400 to win NFL Coach of the Year, cashing in on the Giants' surprising turnaround season. Despite his usual advice to avoid betting with your heart, this time his fandom paid off.
😭 Bad Beat?
Growing up a Habs fan in Montreal and thinking Mise-o-jeu was his ticket out.
Mike has also been featured in:
- The Financial Post
Michael's Articles
It's not just Michael doing the research
Ben Pringle
Casino Editor
<p>Ben Pringle is an online casino expert specializing in the North American iGaming industry. As a Commercial Content Editor for Covers, he produces extensive online casino reviews, detailed bonus code walkthroughs, and educational sweepstakes casino betting guides to help new and experienced players get the edge when gambling online. Despite being a UK native, Ben is an authority on the legalization of online casinos in the U.S. as well as the ongoing expansion of regulated markets in Canada. The Loughborough University graduate prioritizes user experience when assessing operators and is a respected source of accurate, insightful knowledge on legal and grey market real money online casinos, as well as sweepstakes casinos and social casino sites. Ben cut his teeth as an NCTJ-accredited sports journalist, spending five years at UK national newspaper Express Sport. His work was also featured by a number of high-profile outlets like the Radio Times and Eurosport, prior to a move into motorsport PR. A stint at Paddy Power News combined his love of sport and a burgeoning interest in online betting before he dived into iGaming full-time in 2021. The blackjack enthusiast has not looked back since, playing a key role in Covers' casino content team as the brand expands its reach beyond the confines of sports betting. As for his top tip: "Always check the online gambling wagering requirements! A big bonus amount isn't always better."</p>
Read More
Joshua Howe
Sports Betting Editor
Joshua Howe is a sports betting editor at Covers, helping make smarter sports bettors since 2021. The experienced writer and editor has reviewed over 25 sportsbooks and has been placing his own wagers for four years and counting. He prefers FanDuel for its sleek app design and variety of NBA markets.
Read More
Christian Stringer
Betting Editor
Christian Stringer is a seasoned Betting Editor at Covers, specializing in the North American sports betting and iGaming industries. Since joining in 2022, he has played a key role in managing, editing, and publishing commercial content that informs and engages bettors of all levels. After graduating from Mount Allison University, Christian had extended stays in Italy and the British Virgin Islands, providing him with a global outlook on all things entertainment. Prior to Covers, he spent a decade as an award-winning account executive, collaborating with major brands like Rootz, 888, ComeOn!, EastLink, and GG Poker. His expertise extends to onboarding white labels, crafting sportsbook and casino campaigns, and fostering partnerships with gaming providers and affiliates. Having personally reviewed over 35 sportsbooks and DFS sites, Christian brings a sharp, user-focused perspective to the betting landscape. His passion for sports — including sailing, skiing, basketball, and football — fuels his commitment to delivering insightful, high-quality content. Outside of work, he serves on the board of an amateur athletics club, championing community engagement through sport.
Read More
