Tangentially related, is it worth it to do the leetcode grind and all the FAANG-interview preparations if I'm always planning on working remote? Are there remote companies with FAANG-level compensation that would warrant this sort of interview prep?
Finally, I think most companies are using some LC type questions. Asking if you should practice leetcode is like someone asking if they should get in shape. Vehemently the answer is 'yes to some degree', and the rest just depends on your goals.
Being able to interview and get good offers helps your story. Even if your story ends up using those offers as leverage elsewhere.