Building Foundations: Real Estate, Community Impact, and Doing Good with Michaela Scurlock

Building a healthy community takes leaders who are willing to plant roots, invest in local families, and give back. In this episode of Ten Toes Down, co-hosts Dr. Thurmond Lanier (Podiatrist & Founder of SmartStep Foot and Ankle) and Sheena Pickett (Owner & "Petty-Curist" at Alpha Male Nail Care) sit down with Michaela Scurlock, owner of Scurlock Agency. Michaela has been serving home buyers and sellers across North and South Carolina for 23 years, while also leading major community initiatives as the past corporate board chair for the YMCA of Upper Palmetto. From navigating the fast-growing Charlotte and Fort Mill real estate markets to the powerful non-profit work happening behind the scenes, we’re diving into how passion, business, and community service all connect to keep our area grounded and moving forward. In This Episode, We Cover: Meet Michaela Scurlock: How a bad experience with a real estate broker 23 years ago inspired Michaela to get her license, launch her own business, and raise a family in the Carolinas. The Reality of Real Estate: Why home transactions are equal parts psychology and finance, and how to navigate the emotional side of buying and selling. Home Improvements That Pay Off: The truth about home upgrades (kitchens, bathrooms, and pools) versus custom personal touches that can actually hurt resale value. Debunking Social Media Hooks: Why viral real estate marketing tricks and "zero commission" claims aren't always what they seem, and why real human relationships beat algorithms every time. Footwear on the Move: How Michaela balances style and comfort while walking properties all day, featuring her top shoe recommendation for professionals on their feet (Sneex!). Non-Profit Leadership & Giving Back: Michaela’s groundbreaking work with the YMCA of Upper Palmetto and Samaritan’s Feet, and how stepping into non-profit board positions opens doors for community impact. Inspiration for the Next Generation: Michaela’s advice on overcoming fear, accepting opportunities, and understanding that "nothing is too big or too small" to make a difference. What’s Keeping You 10 Toes Down?: Michaela shares her personal foundation: faith, family, and staying grounded in her purpose. Connect With Our Guest & Hosts: Michaela Scurlock (Scurlock Agency) 🌐 Website: scurlockagency.com SmartStep Foot and Ankle (Dr. Thurmond Lanier) 📍 Location: Fort Mill, SC (Tega Cay area) 🌐 Website: smartstepfootandankle.com 📸 Instagram: @smartstepfootandankle | @thurmondlanier Alpha Male Nail Care (Sheena Pickett) 📍 Locations: Charlotte, NC area 🌐 Website: alphamalenailcare.com 📸 Instagram: @alphamalenailcareclt Enjoying the show? Please like, subscribe, rate, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. Drop your comments and feedback below! Until next time, keep moving, take care of yourself, and stay Ten Toes Down!