Media Warrior’s DEATH Exposes Industry Secrets…

A legendary newspaper executive who helped save major American publications from the left’s destructive policies has passed away, leaving behind a blueprint for how traditional media can survive liberal attempts to destroy conservative voices.

Media Executive Dies After Six-Decade Career Fighting Industry Decline

Ira Ellenthal passed away on July 29, 2025, in Old Greenwich, Connecticut, at age 88. The publishing veteran spent over six decades defending American journalism against the forces that have decimated traditional media. Born in Far Rockaway, Queens, in 1937, Ellenthal grew up understanding the newspaper business through his father, who worked nearly four decades in the New York Daily News delivery department. This working-class foundation shaped his common-sense approach to media management that would later save multiple publications.

Strategic Leadership During New York’s Tabloid Wars

During the 1990s, Ellenthal served as president and associate publisher of the New York Daily News during its fierce rivalry with the New York Post. While liberal media executives were surrendering to market pressures and consolidation, Ellenthal fought to maintain the Daily News’s competitive edge through innovative sales strategies and revenue diversification. His leadership proved crucial during this period of intense competition, demonstrating how principled business practices could overcome the industry’s systemic problems without compromising editorial integrity.

Renown newspaper executive and author Ira Ellenthal dead at 88: ‘One of a kind’ https://t.co/k9WH5fpG5N pic.twitter.com/2E1rHROrWI

— New York Post (@nypost) August 14, 2025

Ellenthal’s success stemmed from his unique transition from editorial work to business operations. Starting as assistant sports editor at New York University’s student newspaper, he discovered his talent for sales and marketing while maintaining respect for journalism’s core mission. This dual expertise allowed him to bridge the gap between newsroom creativity and business necessity that many modern media executives have failed to navigate.

Executive Roles at Prestigious Publications

Beyond the Daily News, Ellenthal served as CEO and group publisher at U.S. News & World Report, The Atlantic, and Fast Company during the 2000s. These leadership positions came during a critical period when digital disruption was destroying traditional publishing business models. Rather than surrendering to the inevitability of decline that plagued many media companies, Ellenthal implemented creative revenue strategies that helped these publications adapt and survive. His approach emphasized relationship-driven sales and ethical business practices over the quick fixes that have damaged so many media organizations.

Industry experts consistently praised Ellenthal’s storytelling approach to business development. Jay Walker, founder of Priceline, highlighted how Ellenthal’s use of anecdotes and practical wisdom made his sales techniques both effective and memorable. This American common-sense approach contrasted sharply with the corporate-speak and woke ideologies that have infected much of modern media management.

Legacy of Mentorship and Business Innovation

In 2020, Ellenthal published “The Last Book About Selling That You’ll Ever Need,” distilling decades of experience into practical lessons for sales professionals. The book received critical acclaim for blending humor with business wisdom, reflecting the author’s belief that effective leadership requires both competence and character. His writing emphasized relationship-building and ethical practices over the manipulative tactics that have corrupted much of modern business culture.

Renowned newspaper executive and author Ira Ellenthal dead at 88: ‘One of a kind’ https://t.co/uE9Oxe2nEc

— ConservativeLibrarian (@ConserLibrarian) August 14, 2025

Ellenthal’s influence extended far beyond his executive roles through extensive mentorship of younger professionals. Colleagues consistently cited his collaborative leadership style and ability to foster innovation without sacrificing core principles. His “Sellenthal” column continued providing industry commentary through 2024-2025, offering perspective on how traditional media could survive ongoing challenges. Ellenthal is survived by his wife of 63 years, three sons, and eight grandchildren, with a “Celebration of Life” planned for August 2025.

Sources:

Ira Ellenthal Obituary – Greenwich, CT

Ira Ellenthal Publishing New York Daily News Selling Advertising

Publishing Ira Ellenthal New York Daily News Sports The Last Book About Selling

Former New York Sales Pro Pens New Storybook That’s All About Selling

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