#119 Zach Skow on Redemption, Recovery & the Pawsitive Change Movement

In this moving episode of K9's Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Zach Skow, co-founder of Marley’s Mutts and the groundbreaking Pawsitive Change Program.

Zach shares his personal battle with addiction—and how it ultimately led him to a purpose-driven mission: rescuing shelter dogs and pairing them with incarcerated individuals to create a powerful cycle of healing and redemption.

Through Pawsitive Change, inmates train rescue dogs inside California prisons, giving both a second chance at life. These dogs don’t just find homes—they sometimes go on to become working K9s in security, detection, and emotional support.

In this episode:

• Zach’s story of recovery and building Marley’s Mutts
• Why working with rescue dogs heals trauma for both humans and animals
• How the Pawsitive Change program transforms inmates and reduces recidivism
• Addressing the stigma around bully breeds in K9 and detection work
• Real success stories—both canine and human

This one goes beyond dog training. It’s about purpose, second chances, and using K9s to create real social change.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro & Meet Zach Skow
02:45 Zach’s Journey Through Addiction & Recovery
07:12 The Origin of Marley’s Mutts
10:28 Launching the Pawsitive Change Prison Program
15:41 How Inmates Train Rescue Dogs Behind Bars
20:03 Giving Purpose to the Forgotten—Dogs and Humans
25:36 Stigma Around Bully Breeds in K9 Work
31:19 Real Stories of Redemption from the Program
37:44 Dogs as a Catalyst for Healing and Reform
41:12 Pitbulls, Detection Work & the Future of K9 Training
45:10 What’s Next for Marley’s Mutts & Pawsitive Change