[rookie123]

Thank you for this helpful comment!

How to go about the 15 minute conversation part without trying to be too sycophant?

[a_tartaruga]

If you rearrange the way you see things it's simple to not be sycophantic at all. If you're interested in contributing to their work you will be of value to the team you are trying to join. Don't think about it as them doing you a favor. It's a positive sum game and by reaching out you're potentially making everyone richer.

[sebg]

You don't :)

Seriously though, the pitch is: "I want to get a job in what you're doing, and you have that job; I'd love to learn more."

[mooreds]

I'd add: make it super clear that you are not going to asking them for a job or a referral or selling them anything during the conversation. That will increase the likelihood they'll take the call.

If you can get a warm intro to them, all the better.

[codingdave]

I'd also suggest expecting people to say no, and not taking it personally. If you ask enough people, you will find some that are happy to spend time with you, but it won't be everyone. If you do achieve your goals, some of those people who say "No" might be future co-workers.

So just ask, accept whatever you get, and keep asking more people.