Probably the latter. Also, being a part of the most badass bunch of pilots doing the rowdiest flying at the regional level probably helps as well.

GLA probably shouldn't be a part of this discussion anyhow as they are a true 'regional' airline. All the other airlines are national/major 'super commuters.'

If you went CFI direct RJ you really missed out IMHO. Don't get mad, I'm just biased, you probably made a lot more money and got to kiss all those 'cute' FAs.