Would love to better understand setting up a lightning node, including whether it makes sense for the "average joe". Much of what I've read makes me think that it's rather complex and requires a bit of management to not end up running out of funds.  

 Well, have I got some tutorials for you! lol

Setting up a node: https://youtu.be/rf-GvVYuWa8 
Setting up a node quickly!: https://youtu.be/9svP0Fpp1ZQ 
Managing a node: https://youtu.be/R50OxMBfWSI 
Is it profitable to run a node?: https://youtu.be/LRZy-VtCPe4