I agree - my org supports customers across the US, and so many times we have to try different tricks to get equipment to work, and sometimes, nothing at all.
I work weekends shooting weddings for a studio in town. Plenty different from the day job, not the greatest pay, but challenging and fun to me.
Plus great excuse to invest in more photo gear:D
Reality though, it's taken a while for it to become profitable, but sticking to a budget along the way helps tons.