@hacks4pancakes @jerry Perhaps there needs to be a screening round, or some demonstrated level of commitment from the requestor, such as a questionnaire with detailed answers that require them to do soul searching and research before meeting with you... Here's my suggestions:

- What is their background? (Including resume or LinkedIn, but also explained in their own words.)
- What independent research have they done, and what insights have they gained from it? What are their favorite books on the topic, or articles that have helped them? (If you collect these answers you could start sharing the common ones to future requestor in advance.)
- What are their short term goals, and how do they align with their longterm goals?
- Where do they feel they are running into problems in achieving them?
- What questions do they have for you, and why do they consider you to be the best person to be asking?

You could also hire a TA a few hours a month to review the submissions and manage the schedule. To cover this, a sign-up fee may also be appropriate, and you could also offer to refund most of the money if they follow through. (like a security deposit)

You may find that helping people plan and ask themselves mindful questions ends up solving the problem they wanted to talk to you about! The Socratic method works.