If you've got talent, treat the regionals like graduate school. Get in where you can upgrade quickly and graduate (Multi engine turbine pic) and then get out.

ALL my friends in grad programs started out at 30k+ in their 1st year. Show me all the regionals that give you that kind of money.

QOL, work rules and crew meals don't mean squat switch to your future major airline's hiring board.

If you think that QOL and works rules don't mean anything just because it's a stepping stone, don't complain about pay or fatigue. Ever.