How do I ask for an informational chat?, production planner here

A friend suggested informational chats and I do not know how to ask. It has been a long 19 weeks. I want advice, not a job directly. Did any turn into leads?

Follow up with a thank-you and a short update. One of my chats led to a referral a month later.

Do not apologise for asking. Most people remember someone who helped them.