Keep in mind, a useful GitHub repo doesn't need to contain anything groundbreaking. Honestly, even a simple fizzbuzz application is enough to prove you can code.
However, you are trying to take your version of passion and project it onto everyone else, and I think that is harmful. If gwat is working 9-8 and in love with their job, they are passionate and don't need a github to prove it.
It's your phrase "truly passionate" that rubs me the wrong way, as did the content of the OP. Your definition of a True Hacker(tm) definitely does not match mine. Your post reminds me of a checklist for a recruiting fantasist's wet dream resume more than an explication of what makes hackers different, and I found it distasteful.
As always, YMMV. I can only speak to how the post struck me.
I guess it depends on your situation. I was fortunate enough to spend most of that on the train and typically able to get a seat so usually able to code, and always at the very least read, so I managed to make use of this time.
Other than that, I've put plenty of weekends into my projects too.
As Steve said, if you're passionate enough about it you'll find a way.