Failing Forward with Jack Zinda and Max Massey: Building a PI Practice from Scratch

In this episode, Zinda Law Group CEO Jack Zinda and trial attorney Max Massey sit down for an honest conversation about the evolving realities of building a legal career and a sustainable law practice. From early job struggles to case strategy and managing the pressure of high-stakes litigation, Jack and Max trade stories, lessons, and the systems that help them keep improving. Whether you’re managing your first caseload or leading a growing firm, this episode offers raw insights into the habits and mindsets that drive long-term success in personal injury law. Topics Covered:    Time Management & Work-Life Balance    Early Career Struggles & Career Growth    Diversification vs. Specialization    Dealing with Insurance Companies & Stowers Demands    Case Management Systems & Checklists    Assessing Case Value & Finding Recovery Sources    Lifelong Learning & Building a Support Network Key Takeaways Time Management & Work-Life Balance Jack shares how segmenting time between work, family, and personal health helped him move from late-night burnout to better productivity. The conversation touches on prioritizing outcomes over hours and having the right support system. Early Career Struggles & Career Growth Max opens up about his early challenges breaking into the field, including juggling multiple roles at a small firm. His journey underscores the importance of persistence, humility, and saying “yes” to opportunity. Diversification vs. Specialization Jack and Max reflect on experimenting with different practice areas early on — and how focusing on personal injury law brought clarity, consistency, and better results for clients. Dealing with Insurance Companies & Stowers Demands They break down the role of Stowers demands, how to verify information from adjusters, and why being proactive with documentation can make or break a claim. Case Management Systems & Checklists Jack discusses treating every case like it’s going to trial — and how detailed checklists, playbooks, and case reviews help create consistent outcomes. Assessing Case Value & Finding Recovery Sources The conversation includes insights on evaluating damages, controlling litigation costs, and navigating post-judgment collection when assets are limited. Lifelong Learning & Building a Support Network Jack emphasizes the importance of mentorship, communities like TTLA, and staying curious — while still developing your own systems and principles over time. 📩 Contact Jack: Email: jz@zindalaw.com Phone: 512-246-2224