I became a team lead several years ago. Almost all the time I was going by inertia: watched my colleagues, attended conferences and was trying to work by common sense. My team had little, though systematic problems in processes, which I could solve only during long period of time. I created a list of questions, which I wanted to get answers for outside of my company. I met Vladimir during one of the conferences. I was attracted by the large specter of his experience: deep knowledge of my domain, understanding how to properly speak with business people about the technical solutions, managing the career. I also discovered many useful things from his blog.
Our communication was warm and welcoming. I felt he is sincerely interested and was willing to help. In the end:

• He highlighted the issues from different point of views, I was not thinking of before
• Suggested several practices, which I was able to try in my work right away
• Recommended several books, which truly help to go in the direction I actually needed

I am glad I know Vladimir and appreciate his help.

It's been while we communicate with Vladimir.
First of all I want to note how well we go together. It's very important to be on the same page with your mentor, so that you talk efficiently. Vladimir makes a great job designing applications, architecture and IT industry in general, thus being able to recommend where to grow and how to to properly formulate your request, if you want to evolve as a specialist. We write down particular steps and move towards the goal :)
Also Vladimir is sincere about not knowing well enough a particular area and can recommend proper experts(for me it was passing behavioral interviews and software security). Also Vladimir is always happy to answer questions outside consultations and can share materials and links on the topic you ask. Totally recommend Vladimir as a mentor and great specialist :)