Got paid $15K for a consulting project that was "follow up" work after a call.

My rate was around $350 an hour and it was fun for a while. Had one call though that the "client" only talked to me for 5 minutes and then said they had another meeting…

GLG paid me a whopping $35 for blocking an hour on my calendar.

Between the 20 or so calls that I've done, I would say less than 3 of the clients asked questions that were well researched / thoughtful. Most could have found the answer to their questions just as fast through google.

My takeaway is most of these calls are "check the box" to say they've spoken with experts to arrive at a decision / make an investment.
In reality, they have made up their mind on whatever decision is supposedly being evaluated before the call. They ask you questions that lead you into giving them info that supports their desired plan of action.

If you're trying to grow into a senior executive role, it's great practice for answering questions on the spot. Plus, learning how to give meaningful answers while not being too "in the weeds" with details.