1. VM, 2) docker (macos runs docker inside a VM, u run KDE inside of it as a fat container), 3) MacOS specific tooling - this will depend on what they let you install. homebrew is a start, nix env also exists.

I’m using fedora as my work system, because I have a relatively new laptop that needs the new kernels. Haven’t experienced anything you’re describing. Are you on fedora regular or on sliverblue (the immutable version)? If you’re having issues running the newest kernel, follow the fedora documented way to build and run your own. I did just that when needed a prerelease kernel and it worked out fine. I usually upgrade to a new release by the end of the cycle, so that the new version had 6 months to mature. I never immediately upgrade.

I use sway because it gives me 4 hours more battery life compared to gnome.