Spec Work & Space150 Dec 17, 09, 7:57 a.m.

Is anyone following the thread on Brand New about space150s design contest?:
http://www.underconsideration.co…

There's a follow-up thread, too:
http://www.underconsideration.co…

This is one of the latest posts:
"Contests, open design jams, and even spec work are, and will continue to be, a growing facet of the design landscape and much important and influential work will be created using these vehicles."

I was surprised at the number of people who posted their support for spec work. I'm curious how people think they can support themselves by working this way.