This statement is true. When I do individual coaching (Kkocchi Coaching), I don't take money; I always buy the meals and coffee. And that is what's normal. Taking money between individuals while bringing up mentoring or coaching? If you're going to do that, just open an academy. If a mentor/coach wants anything from you, it would be your success. Then, even if the mentor or coach asks you not to do anything, you will already want to do something for them.
And there are plenty of ways to legitimately pay money and make a "transaction" through academies or products. Trying to get something done for free is what's actually weird.

