Haha, I think talking to mentors is a skill, and it takes some trust and vulnerability as well -- I've been on both sides of those programs (in a non-academic work context), and I think I only became good at being a mentee after I became a mentor. On the other hand, I've watched some people absolutely thrive at figuring out how to get what they want out of a mentorship.

Friendly acquaintanceships are much easier. And fun!