If Duolingo isn’t doing it for you then check out this KC-based biz. Bridge The Gap Spanish (BTG Spanish) utilizes virtual meeting software to connect you with native Spanish-speaking teachers across the globe — sans guilt-tripping owls. confession: the guilt-tripping owl has a HOLD ON ME. Help! :)

Started by KC native Keshia Villas in 2020, the program is designed for adult learners of all skill levels. That means you can sign up whether you squeaked through high school Spanish, or you’re a seasoned pro looking to brush up.

After learning Spanish via an immersion program, Villas decided she wanted to give that same experience to others who might not have that opportunity.

"When I moved back to the States, I realized a lot of my friends who wanted to speak Spanish [are] kind of stuck," Villas said. "So I started BTG Spanish as a way to provide a mini immersion experience, so they're talking with the native speaker and getting used to conversing in Spanish instead of just [doing] book work."

How does it work?

First, you book a "discovery call" with Villas. During the call she’ll discover your Spanish level + find your learning style. You're paired with a teacher based on that.

Then, you pick your learning package. You can choose to have between one to three live one-on-one conversation sessions with your teacher a week. Each level also includes live grammar + coaching sessions.

How are teachers chosen?

Many of the teachers are people Keshia has met during her travels but, don’t worry, she tells us she makes sure to vet their teaching skills, finding people who are great at kind correction while being a stickler for grammar.

Keshia and the English as a Second Language crew pose for you. | Photo courtesy of BTG Spanish

Villas hopes Bridge The Gap Spanish helps any Kansas Citian interested in learning Spanish that have hit a wall.

"There aren't a lot of programs for adults," she said. "We want to meet adults where they are and bridge that gap — if you want to say — by providing classes that are tailored to adults."