Failing Forward with Jack Zinda and Max Massey: Building a PI Practice from Scratch
Manage episode 479966060 series 3655027
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: [email protected]
Phone: 512-246-2224
86 episodes