Business Owner, Advisor, and Speaker

DeShawn Scott leads work across business, public trust, strategy, and media through The D5 Group and Sound United Media.

About DeShawn

DeShawn Scott is a business owner, advisor, and founder whose work sits at the intersection of business leadership, public trust, strategy, and media.

He is known for clear judgment, public-facing work, and a disciplined approach to business, communication, and leadership.

What Forged My Perspective

My perspective was shaped through ownership, responsibility, public-facing work, business growth, pressure, grief, and decisions that stay with you after the day is done.

 I understand what it means to carry a vision, face financial pressure, build while grieving, bear the weight of leadership, manage public perception, and pay the price for getting things wrong.

Training, Work, and Civic Experience

 I hold a Professional Certified Marketer credential from the American Marketing Association and have formal training in marketing management.

My work has placed me alongside small business owners, nonprofit executives, and civic leaders as they navigate strategy, communication, public trust, and growth.

In collaboration with the City of Warren, Ohio, I serve as the program architect for the Ember Business Fundamentals Workshop, a small-business education program focused on practical strategies, stronger foundations, and better business decisions.

Work I Lead

The D5 Group

Since 2014, DeShawn has led The D5 Group, the strategy and marketing management firm he founded to serve government agencies, nonprofits, and public-facing organizations.

Today, the firm is a trusted resource for executives and department heads who need clear strategy, credible communication, and strong creative direction when the message matters.

He also earned a Gold ADDY as executive producer, reflecting his work in production leadership and creative direction.

Sound United Media

Since 2017, DeShawn has led Sound United Media, the media company he founded to support podcasts, public conversations, and thoughtful content production.

Alongside production manager Kimberly Gonzales, the company has served nonprofits, brand builders, coaches, and public voices. Its work includes producing the Sound United Presents podcast and supporting several other shows, including The Bo and Luke Show, Wellness in the Valley, and Her Crown Podcast, co-produced by the late Erica Scott.