It's about creating your own networks. Think banking networks. Their ATMs interoperate, why is that? Because they take a cut. For a "profitable" routing node it's about business relationships not hoping your node is well connected. Create (usually the only) pathways to buy things for your local stores in BTC. Take the day, talk to all local stores who will listen that you can provide essentially an under the table way to have direct customer relations. Open your node to them and have them put up a QR placard in their business to use your routing node to buy items there with Lightning. Derek has connections, if very plugged into his community and is probably why he is promoting his node. Just some food for thought. No one is saying put on a parachute and figure it out on the way down.