When my M-5 is lightweight, no passengers or cargo, it turns very easily on the ground. The tailwheel releases and I have no problem turning.

When it is heavy, it is difficult to turn. It appears that the heavy weight on the tailwheel affect its ability to turn easily. It is very noticeable at a slow speed.

Could it be the leaf spring or the angle of the tailwheel? I have a Scott 3200.

Flyer

I thinks it's the weight on the tailwheel, toss someone out at the next stop...

Your leafspring is most likely too weak and worn.
Or your tailwheel needs rebuild, the shim may have ridden over the roll pin locator dowel.
With a Scott you need tension steering springs OR an Alaska Bushwheel steering arm. With a Maule tailwheel you need the Maule compression steering springs.
Maule compression steering springs must not be used with a Scott without the AK B steering arm.

A simple cause for this sort of problem is too little pressure in the tail wheel. 50 psi is a good target.