An ordinary question asked respectfully can give expertise a reason to become generous.

People who know a great deal are often asked badly, or not at all, and they get used to keeping it to themselves. A plain question asked with real interest changes that: it gives them a reason to open the store, and most people enjoy being useful about the thing they have spent years on. Access to knowledge is frequently a matter of manner rather than merit.

This week, ask somebody about the part of their work you do not understand. Say you are asking because you want to know. Then stay quiet long enough for a real answer to arrive.