I think we all probably agree that the beginning of every project starts with a conversation. It also seem pretty standard to bring lots of questions so you can keep it going until everyone runs out of useful things to say. At that point, you need something to look at to move the conversation forward. It usually takes more than an hour… not more than three. My estimates seem pretty similar to Joe’s.
I usually think of it in rounds vs. days, it makes it easier for me to estimate timing. First round and second round are at least 2 or 3 days worth of work each and a final round with one or two days. Production might get lumped in with other deliverables but a day or two for that depending on complexity.
Generally, I gather inspiration and sketch at the same time. I like to ideate with markers and I move the ideas that have legs into illustrator. I think differently with different mediums so, I try to fool around with as many as I have time for.