How I Learned Spanish in Less Than A Year - A Step by Step Guide

In this video I explain how I learned Spanish in less than a year. I know that many of you have asked questions about my language learning process. In this video I give a step by step guide to what I did to learn Spanish. Below are links to the resources that I used/discussed in this video. #LanguageLearning #LearningSpanish #HowToLearnSpanish
Check out my book on how to learn Spanish here!: www.amazon.com/dp/B0C8RBK7W8
Link to Madrigal's Magic Guide to Spanish: amzn.to/3gG1PBj
If you're interested in using iTalki feel free to use my referral link. This gives you a discount on your first class and I use the credits that I get to try and review tutors on iTalki: www.italki.com/i/ref/6aHFC6?h...
My iTalki Teachers:
Sharon: www.italki.com/teacher/6518892
Juan: www.italki.com/teacher/6811690
Martha/Lily: www.italki.com/teacher/7183086
Books:
Madrigal's Magic Key to Spanish: amzn.to/3gG1PBj
Spanish Short Stories for Beginners: www.amazon.com/gp/product/170...
Spanish Short Stories for Beginners Volume 2:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/198...
No Nonsense Spanish Workbook:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/153...
Practice Makes Perfect - Intermediate Spanish Grammar:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Short Stories in Spanish for Intermediate Learners:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/152...

[@rickclapie5434]

Sir, you have my respect. 3 jobs and still making time to learn Spanish and no doubt other things. This world is better with people like you in it! Wishing you much success in life!!

[@MikeBen]

Wow thank you Rick and good luck to you on your Spanish journey

[@curtismabry5658]

@@MikeBen how come you stopped duolingo?

[@SDW90808]

He’s a wild man! Learn Spanish, they said. It’ll be easy, they said. Well, it’s not easy. Much respect.

[@cantonesepoems8200]

@@curtismabry5658 that's a good question

[@SunChaserEUC]

@@curtismabry5658 @cantonese poems I know I’m a little late, but at the end of the video he said it’s because in 15 minutes of Duolingo, is worth less than 15 minutes of reading a Spanish learning book.

[@Losochill]

Your tutoring business is not “little” and your pressure washing business is not “small”. Don’t do that to yourself brother. C’mon Mr. Ben! 💪🏾🔥🙏🏾

[@MikeBen]

You are right, I appreciate that!

[@PRICEX]

I agree with your sentiment, but it is not a negative term to call a business small. It is simply a description

[@francmittelo6731]

To summarize, if you want to learn ANYTHING, then you need to immerse yourself in that activity and practice it. Don't worry about how bad you are at the beginning. If you consistently practice and learn 1 thing per day, then at the end of the year, you would have learned 365 things. Active learning is the most effective way of learning.

[@MikeBen]

Agreed 100%

[@GOD-zt6sf]

@@agroasesor1 I bet you charge for that shit as you should for giving time into this, do let me know more

[@krizta1234]

65 trying to learn and remember Spanish 🙈

[@jeremymetcalf2502]

I got to a point at one of my jobs that was surrounded by Cubans, I could understand 80% of what they were saying.

[@DavidSinghiser]

Years ago I tutored a kid in high school using that book. He was failing Spanish. Not only did he pass, but he went on a cruise with his family that summer and met someone from South America. He was able to speak Spanish with is his new friend for the whole trip. He and his dad were so excited to tell me when they came back. Of the three of us, I don't know who was most happy about it.

[@MikeBen]

Wow it’s been a great resource for years then, stories like yours remind me why that book is so effective!

[@tollwutig]

David, are you referring to the Madrigal book?

[@DavidSinghiser]

@@tollwutig Yes

[@andreashellmuth7739]

@@agroasesor1 is that an open offer mi amigo? ^^

[@LilXancheX]

@@andreashellmuth7739 si, y si quieres yo te enseño. Asta las mala palabras, a guebo 👊🏻

[@monique4879]

Damn 60 hour weeks and still finding the time to self improve...props to you !

[@MikeBen]

Thanks Monique!

[@miriamspandereta]

Amen to that! Bravo Mike Ben!

[@MaddieLucaMalan]

makes me real embarrassed for saying i don't have time to learn spanish

[@TheSublimeLifestyle]

That boy was on his purpose! 🧠🔥

[@LovelyCeee]

Agreed!!! Talk about dedication!!!

[@tatianadelgado4796]

I’m a native Spanish speaker and I’m listening this video in order to improve my English listening skills. I really like all the recommendations that you gave us.👌🏻

[@MikeBen]

Thanks Tatiana and I hope the other videos that I have can help you practice your listening as well!

[@chuckscott4661]

@Hall. She’s a catfish, bro.

[@maddog3768]

I love fish , specially sardines and tuna.

[@karicv9720]

Me too, i am native Spanish speaker and i'm watching this video to improve my English:)

[@renatonp]

I'm a native Portuguese speaker, and I'm listening to this video to practice my English listening skills, and to know more about that book and how to start studying Spanish.

[@user-tq8nd5np9m]

Dude!!! I found that book while I was in prison!!! I wrote each lesson by hand and read it out loud 3x/day for a week. Some lessons I did for two weeks due to word reversals. But I swear by that book to all my friends who "claim" they want to learn spanish. I'm now at the point to where they cant even tell I'm white on the phone.

[@MikeBen]

Being confused for a native speaker is the ultimate compliment. I agree, this book is a gem!

[@motleyminded85]

Tip: If you see a Spanish learning book/app that has the red and yellow flag, that's EUROPEAN Spanish, not Latin American. They are different.

[@MikeBen]

Gracias

[@benjaminnicholasking7222]

Yeah I realized it the other day

[@khalabeebstiopic7065]

This is probably the most in-depth “how I learned Spanish” vid I’ve seen. Much appreciated, salute !

[@MikeBen]

Thanks!

[@itallstartedwheniwasborn2374]

For real. I think I'm at the place that I already "know" Spanish. I've been studying for it for a little less than a hear and now I'm learning more accents and phrases and the way different people speak it, and improving conversational fluency. And lemmie tell you, when I started, no one put out a damn nearly 40 min video explaining in detail and providing resources, and this is something that's amazing to see.

[@javainbaker9971]

O.H!

[@dorianlong4660]

Yes, this is a super helpful video. I'm working on improving my Spanish too! Will check out your resources.

[@mariajesus6647]

Salute!??? Eso es italiano.

[@brevargas9778]

You were definitely born to be a teacher💕

[@MikeBen]

Thanks!

[@maggiemae987]

VERY TRUE

[@mache3984]

It's a powerful feeling when you start to learn a new language and begin to understand those around you and engage in conversations. It literally opens you up to a whole new world and a whole new you. It helps with self esteem and confidence.

[@MikeBen]

Agreed 100%!

[@hermanoamor3606]

To speak 2 languages is like you become in 2 persons.

[@teawithal3uml3lel3ee]

“Not sitting around watching telenovelas and listening to Ozuna.” 🤣 Really needed this advice - thanks!

[@MikeBen]

De nada jaja

[@caveman540]

Dang you’re a busy man!....thanks for video. I’m two weeks into learning Spanish.....at 56 years old. I’m making it my sole mission to learn how to speak to our local Mexican immigrants. They are nice people and I would really like to communicate in their native language. I feel kinda stupid trying but I love the language when I hear it. I am very southern country and when I play back myself it sounds really funny. I am sure they may find strange sounding. I plan to visit the Mexican store just down the road from me in about a month or so just to ask for a few vegetables. I have to get up the nerve.

[@MikeBen]

Thanks and I think that's the best way to practice while we're in the US!

[@travisbower3856]

Similar boat. Learn some phrases and visit and speak! Just do it...then return.

[@seantingz7714]

you have a big heart❤️

[@myleonhomes]

Don’t be self conscious, they would proud you’re learning the language. Especially now a days with “this is America, speak English” crap going on.

[@dannygamez7764]

Mike, you just took away all my excuses for not learning Spanish! If you can find the time while working three jobs and having a life then I have to redouble my efforts. Thanks for the motivation and inspiration.

[@MikeBen]

I’m glad this helps Danny!

[@lukewilliams4782]

“It’s crazy what the human brain can do when you just put information into it and stay consistent” I love this quote, it’s so applicable life in general, not just language learning. This video was really helpful and has given me plenty of resources to look at to try and kick on with my Spanish. Congratulations on your own learning journey and you for sharing this video.

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps y que sigas aprendiendo!

[@charmantcoeur]

In a just country, we’d pay our teachers enough that they wouldn’t have to work 60 hours a week. Amazing that you were able to do anything at all in your time outside of work. What an inspiring story. Thank you.

[@MikeBen]

Im glad this helps Nick! I was a little bit of a workaholic back when I recorded this video lol

[@dragonchr15]

Dude...check out an average salary in the Long island region of NY....

[@melanielovick-lugo3118]

This video was EXCELLENT! I took notes. I am so tired of being at the same level in Spanish, seemingly not progressing in Spanish conversation, so I took notes. I have one of the workbooks that you showed us. The one in yellow. I will be implementing these study routines into my life. I am determined to get better. I will NEVER give up! Thank you for this information.

[@MikeBen]

You’re welcome and I’m glad this helped!

[@oluwafisayo3676]

How is this going now?

[@melanielovick-lugo3118]

@Heaven & Hell Testimonies Thank you for asking! I had gotten a little frustrated there with my progress and just stopped cold turkey, but then I got motivated when it occurred to me that I needed you read aloud in Spanish. That has helped. I think I've had a fear that I couldn't do it and when I was put on the spot to translate for somebody, I would totally freak out and shut down. Then I realized later that I DID understand what had been said. But last Sunday at church, there were two women from Venezuela who came but understood no English. I just shifted gears and I flowed naturally. I didn't even realize what I had done until I got home. I was in shock! 😳 I even introduced them to the app called, "Language Transfer" which teaches English for Spanish speakers. They were so happy. 😃 That was a first and it will not be the last time that I do that. I just need to take the pressure off of myself.

[@mlwelter]

How is it going chaplain? I'm stuck for years :)

[@12567NoYouCannot]

@@melanielovick-lugo3118 Have You watched the Spanish Telenovelas from Univision and Telemundo; a Lot of People Learn Conversational Spanish that way.

[@wox7543]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 📚 Overview and Disclaimer 03:59 🎧 Month One: Getting Started 07:46 🚗 Month Two: Immersive Listening 10:35 💬 Month Three: Speaking Practice 14:46 📚 Month Three Continued: Expanding Learning 17:39 📚 Language Learning Resources for Beginners 18:21 💰 Investing in Spanish Lessons 19:02 🤝 Resuming Lessons and Expanding Learning Sources 20:12 🚀 Building Momentum in Language Learning 21:47 📖 Combining Reading, Music, and Grammar 23:36 🎯 Consistency and Exchange Partners 25:13 📚 Using Grammar Workbooks 26:24 🗓️ Months 8-11: Consistency is Key 29:11 🧳 Language Learning through Travel 31:21 🗝️ Key Takeaways Made with HARPA AI

[@xisxil7724]

Thank u

[@jonathanarguedas6832]

The creator of that book is from my country, Costa Rica, a lot of pride.

[@MikeBen]

She wrote one of best language learning books of all time. Pura vida!

[@flyingphirstklass]

at age 10 , I wanted to learn Spanish and I found : Madrigal's Magic Key to Spanish" I would write out sentences and words and practice pronunciation. I never seen anyone else use that book and I always recommend it ! so cool to see that you also found it helpful!

[@MikeBen]

It’s an amazing resource!

[@Suki272]

I agree that italki is an amazing resource. You know what else is great? A Kindle. A waterproof one if you want to read while at the beach or in the tub. I read the first 3 Harry Potter books and the first 3 Percy Jackson books in Spanish and I loved that I could put my finger on a word and it would give me the definition, translation, and sample sentences instantly. Then it would automatically save that word in my word list, so I can review it whenever I please. Thank you so much for the podcast information. I am going to check them all out! : )

[@MikeBen]

That's such a great idea, I'm going to invest in one this year!

[@Mikebigmike94]

That’s good to know! Does it work for phrases? For example “a lo mejor” etc would you need to highlight the full phrase? Cheers

[@jemand8462]

I agree! I bought an old used one just for Olly Richards short stories and now I love it and read so much more than before (well, I didn't even read before)

[@user-te1vv6ec4k]

Don't you need an app for that? Or was just having a Kindle enough?

[@vanguardcycle]

wow! thanks! didnt know any of this. *immediately searches amazon for a kindle*

[@michaelabercrombie7698]

Right out the gate you're being honest about your accomplishments, not jerking people around. Obviously it takes years to achieve fluency in any language. But the ability to at least speak conversationally in a year is still impressive.

[@MikeBen]

Thanks and I'm glad this helped

[@MiguelAngel-jp6xo]

I'm a native Spanish speaker and when I started learning English I was 32 and I got addicted to it. For years I only listen to English music. Only read English books. Every KZbin video I watched, and so on. Now I listen to music in both languages. However for some reason my brain enjoys more English. It's like a workout. It's more challenging. Siento la necesidad de hablar y escuchar el Inglés. Thanks for this information.

[@MikeBen]

I understand that addictive element that you're describing. I am there now with Spanish and its a major part of my life now.

[@JohnSmith-qh6zh]

Silvana sin Lana is a great seriess on Netflix. Easy to understand Spanish.

[@MikeBen]

Thanks, I'll be sure to check her that one out!

[@makeyourlifeeasier5794]

Best line in this excellent video " I'm bored when I'm no learning something." So true! Words to live by. Keep up the good work.

[@MikeBen]

Gracias!

[@goodfay]

Excellent

[@nadineF]

Wow. What an entrepreneur you are. Lots of respect and admiration for you. Wishing you great success!

[@MikeBen]

Thank you!

[@cryptobra5933]

3 minute Spanish got me out here breaking language barriers . Muchas gracias mi hermano👏🏼

[@MikeBen]

Haha de nada!

[@1013ministries]

This book is so valuable to any Spanish learner. It should be step 1. In my opinion

[@MikeBen]

Super helpful

[@xiaofei89]

I’m a Portuguese speaker that is also fluent in Spanish, but I watched this video to try to get an insight for my other languages. I work full time and I’m getting my second degree which is making it hard for me to focus on my studying of Chinese, Japanese, and German. I’m already B1 in two of those but your tips helped me get organized and make the best of my time. Thank you.

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps!

[@samaval9920]

Also, see videos by Anna Lenkovska Zoe of Zoe. languages (methods) Olly Richards Steve Kaufmann Luca Lamparielloomo Buena suerte!! M

[@Brianopolis]

Good for you! I taught myself Spanish in 1996, before the internet! I'm currently writing about my experience. Keep up the good work!

[@MikeBen]

Thanks Brian!

[@MarkyNomad]

I really respect the fact you don't straight up lie and claim you speak the language perfectly despite having a really high level. I find the youtube "polyglot" community to be super toxic and narcissistic. You have people claiming to speak 30+ languages, but in reality they only know how to ask (not answer) a series of casual questions. More people should be transparent like you and show the people out there learning that it's completely normal to spend months, even years to get to the point of having a basic conversation, which in itself is a great achievement. I understand these lies generate clicks and money, but people don't understand the long term negative effects of turning a language learning journey, which should be a beautiful thing and possibility to comprehend a new culture and mindset into a "how fast can I reach a level where other people will be impressed by how good I am?" competition. Keep it up brother. Languages are the keys that unlock the many doors of new experiences and cultures.

[@MikeBen]

Agreed and thank you for the comment Marky!

[@StarrySkyyyy]

I watched ONE video about how to learn spanish cuz I was curious and now youtube won't stop recommending these to me I'm a native spanish speaker 💀

[@MikeBen]

😂

[@aLaMil]

hahaha Ozuna was a big source of knowledge in my Spanish learning journey too. Also this just shows how you have to actually want to learn the language, because that's when you find the ways to fit it in for 15 minutes a day, 30 minutes a day, rather than making the excuse that you can never find time to practice. Just chipping away and making small progress every week by practicing a fundamental skill (speaking, reading, writing, listening) for at least a bit everyday, or not even everyday but most days, will lead to immense progress in 1 year.

[@MikeBen]

Agreed 100%, we make time for things that we prioritize. Also, Ozuna brings me so much nostalgia now lol. He's talented

[@lj32920]

I'm old. I'm 75. Not only have things changed a lot in many ways during my life, I've also been in many places. When I was a kid, you probably weren't even born yet. Things I observed you had nothing to do with and probably your parents didn't either. So don't think I'm blaming you or your family for anything. It's just the way things were. You are a young American black man. Back when I was a kid, a young American black man would never have your vocabulary, ease in talking, or suggestions to make things better for others. You come across as bright, upright, experienced, and helpful. You come across as my equal as a human being and possibly my superior as a linguist and teacher. Perhaps you can imagine and perhaps you can't, but back then a young black guy couldn't imagine putting out a video to help others learn something. Either the concept of doing so, the ability to do so, or the audacity to do so. He'd have been afraid of how it would be taken, by whom, and how dangerous it would be for him. I don't know if you keep a genealogical journal or something, but your peers and those young ones coming up should realize how amazing you and your generation are, and how you have excelled in ways that are unlikely and almost unthinkable to your ancestors. You probably don't even think about it. But to me you appear to be an example of how the intelligent and energetic parts of a less than perfect past can bloom into a source for hope and positive transformation for the future. I'll enjoy learning what you have to share. Thank you.

[@MikeBen]

Gracias por ver y por comentar!

[@Rofaida_Ehab]

Sir you are really dedicated and I respect that i wanted to learn Spanish Alot but I didn't know where to start... I'll take your steps and add mine I'm a medical student and also Arabic tutor online I'll start today 4/4/2024 and I'll come here after a year from now to see how far i went.!

[@MikeBen]

Please keep me updated! Que sigas aprendiendo!

[@jingles5661]

I just started using duolingo since my girlfriend is majoring in spanish, but after hearing what u said I will be swapping to other methods ASAP. I haven't watched any language videos in the past but this has to be one of the most in depth amazing videos i've watched on this platform in awhile. You seem really passionate about learning the language and mastering it, even with three jobs buying tutoring and all these books, listening to it in the car etc. I know this video is now almost 3 years old but i hope your journey has been and continues to go well !

[@MikeBen]

Thank you and I'm glad this helps!

[@thebigNT]

I started from zero Spanish in the summer, now I have listened to (actively listened to) every lesson from Kieran Ball on spotify (60+ lessons, each lesson with ~5-30 3 minute parts) primarily during my 25 minute each way commute to work. I am also on lesson 38 in Madrical's book, almost done. Now I'm getting ready to start hiring a tutor to really start speaking!

[@utubedude2842]

Is madrigals book helping?

[@thebigNT]

@@utubedude2842 Yes, it is fantastic. Even after 2 months of listening to Kieran Ball (and doing things like Duolingo that I won't count), it was very beneficial to start at page 1 and do every single exercise/translation/conjugation that the book requests. Every sentence in that book is put there carefully. You immediately respect it and want to do everything it asks. Also, I am having second thoughts about using an online tutor (iTalki) for primary learning purposes. I am looking for another primary resource when I soon finish Madrical's book. Perhaps an A2 level coursebook.

[@MikeBen]

Wow congrats and keep going!

[@debsdebs1941]

thank you, I trying to learn spanish and english for myself

[@MikeBen]

Que sigas aprendiendo!

[@moniemone1062]

Great info… Thanks for sharing

[@jeansmith3064]

As a lifelong learner myself, I can tell you are a teacher by the way you have your notes organized. Great job and blessings for all that you do.

[@MikeBen]

Gracias Jean!

[@madalynpalmer5137]

Jackpot. The only KZbin video I had to watch to learn Spanish

[@MikeBen]

I’m glad this helps 🙏🏾

[@visulino]

I speak Spanish, and studied Italian on Duolingo and it worked.

[@MikeBen]

It can work, just doesn’t work with my personal schedule

[@DrewTheNomad]

Muchas gracias por este video Mike. Cuándo empecé aprender español el año pasado, tu video fue un del primer que ví, y utilizé muchos consejos que compartía. Me he estudiado español ahora por casi un año (351 días) y el viaje fue increíble. Puedo tener conversaciones con nativos, leer, escribir, y entender español muy bien. Considero mi nivel ser intermedio (B1/2). Muchísimas gracias por haciendo este video y continúe siendo una inspiración para otras personas que desean aprender un idioma nuevo.🤙🏽

[@MikeBen]

Drew, muchísimas gracias por este comentario. Esta es la razón por la cual yo subo videos. Muchas gracias de nuevo y que sigas aprendiendo!

[@leviurbina3413]

Yo estoy aprendiendo inglés si quiern practicar conmigo solo díganme.

[@brendaldape]

Your accent is on point and doesn’t sound like you just learned! Awesome job!

[@MikeBen]

Thanks Brenda!

[@sarinarogers-campbell7043]

Your determination to accomplish your goals is what we all can take from you. Great job!!!

[@MikeBen]

Gracias!

[@cathetedder4133]

I bought Madrigal's Magic Key to Spanish. A Chapter a day might be ambitious for me, but it is something to aspire to. Thank you for sharing your story. It's an inspiration!

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this was helpful and even a little a day helps! Que sigas aprendiendo!

[@dearfrugallife7946]

Once you said Ozuna…I was in!!! Baila, Baila, Baila on the way to work everyday😊 and I’m a SPED teacher!

[@MikeBen]

Es muy duro no! Que sigas aprendido! Si se puede!

[@zascandil174]

I've been studying english since I was 6 years old using tradicional methods. I mean, grammar, exercises, list of vocabulary, idioms etc. Now I'm 46 years old and I came across with this idea: comprehensible input. Blew my mind. Listening & reading 24/7 and you'll enhance dramatically. It works!

[@MikeBen]

Agreed!

[@ellarae6450]

Thank you. I’ve been struggling to learn español for years and now I see that I am not dedicated to it enough. Thank you for the great example of how to get it done. Your Spanish pronunciation is really good and so enjoyable to hear.

[@MikeBen]

Mil gracias!

[@FarzanaClara]

I was just scrolling through and KZbin recommended me ur video. Believe me u inspired me a lot to learn Spanish finally (it was my goal to learn this language but i was procrastinating now I'm gonna surely learn it because of you) . You r one of a hard working man. Keep it up buddy!!

[@MikeBen]

Thank you and wishing you well on your learning journey!

[@Major_Winkee]

Thank you for doing this!

[@MikeBen]

Im glad that this helps!

[@davidrestrepo1441]

Qué bonito cuando alguien se interesa en tu lengua materna. Keep going and greetings from Colombia

[@MikeBen]

Muchas gracias!

[@beebees4680]

Thank you so much for sharing all this info. This is the most informative and more to the point REAL video I've seen on language learning. You are a born teacher and your kindness shines. I am learning Spanish and will be investing in some of your books you have recommended. I cannot thank you enough. I'm so glad I found your channel. Love from Scotland ❤🙏🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@MikeBen]

Wow muchas gracias and Im glad this helps!

[@Mvjesty23]

Madrigal’s book in combination with the “complete Spanish” podcast by language transfer found on sound cloud works wonders!!

[@MikeBen]

Agreed!

[@MaxExpat-ps5yk]

I love Butterfly Spanish. Anna is a top rate teacher. Also Madrigals is an excellent text. Here's a tip, I found a tele-novela here in Chile to listen to. Chilean Spanish is different. Find a similar show for the type of spanish you want to learn. Great job Mike.

[@MikeBen]

Agreed 100% Max, mil gracias!

[@midlanticwellnesscentermwc5917]

This is so exciting! My family and I met today to share our first stories. We’re at different levels but are excited about improving our language skills. Thanks so much for the tips you shared in this video. We’ll keep you posted😃

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps and sigue adelante!

[@unawarecatpaws]

Only a teacher can tell you how to learn something properly! Thank you mike for such an informative video. Will definitely use some of your resources and suggestions in my spanish learning journey :)

[@MikeBen]

Glad it was helpful!

[@erich1070]

Thank You for this gift👍🏾

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps

[@catrionakilgallon4400]

Love hearing these tips. Your dedication has clearly paid off!

[@MikeBen]

Thanks and I’m glad these help!

[@carlericvonkleistiii2188]

I concur on the Madrigal book. It is extremely helpful. It is far better than a "standard" textbook.

[@MikeBen]

Extremely helpful

[@MisterGames]

Best "how I learned Spanish" video on KZbin. Thank you for sharing!

[@MikeBen]

Wow thanks I’m glad this helps!

[@dsam3]

I'm on Madrigal for 6 months only got to 40 lessons. You did one lesson a day, legend!

[@MikeBen]

Thanks, it's never too late to pick it back up!

[@lavarmiles9909]

Thank you so much! Super informative! Appreciate your work man!

[@MikeBen]

Encantado! Im glad this helps!

[@DarcyWhyte]

I'm four months in and am making pretty good progress. I love your ideas and am adding them to my todo list! Thanks for this great video sharing your experience/wisdom!

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps! Que sigas aprendiendo!

[@DarcyWhyte]

@@MikeBen It's worth noting that I went and signed up for some lessons on iTalki as per your advice and it's great. It doesn't look like it gave you any credit for refering me though. I think there referal system is flawed (perhaps even dishonest). But the instructors are great.

[@terrywhitaker189]

I have been taking the same trip as you have been on. I am much older(76) and I am dyslexic. I started using the popular money wasting options before I found italki. I have 4-6 teachers that I take classes with every week. I am in quarantine because of a weak immune system which gave me something to do. I have been on this journey for 15 months and am at the very awkward stage you spoke about. Your video was amazing. Thanks Terry

[@MikeBen]

Im glad this helps Terry and I love to hear that you are still learning despite the difficult circumstances. Que sigas aprendiendo!!!

[@aronfaithful6131]

Thank you so much for sharing

[@MikeBen]

De nada!

[@harrisonjones1087]

Appreciate you and your hard work. Thanks man!

[@MikeBen]

De nada and I'm glad this helps!

[@hunched_monk3279]

Thanks buddy so helpful! Appreciate the effort to share all the resources

[@MikeBen]

I’m glad this helps!

[@stephyg20]

Mazel Tov Mike! This is amazing and so inspiring. My passion for Spanish has been sparked the last so many months and this video gives me a lot of motivation to jump full force into my dream to speak Spanish. Muy Bien Amigo! Keep going!

[@MikeBen]

De nada and I'm glad this helped! Sigue adelante!

[@directionofease]

Excellent. Thanks, Mike. 🙏🏻

[@MikeBen]

I’m glad this helps!

[@sunattitude]

Thanks so much for sharing!! This is so SUPER helpful!!

[@MikeBen]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ewee4735]

Very inspiring! 🔥 Thank you for taking the time to make this super detailed video! Definitely taking some notes 😎👍❤️

[@MikeBen]

Im glad this helps!

[@ompurnam108]

Hey Mike, thanks for sharing your journey. Been learning Spanish for a year, and working on overcoming my transition from beginner to intermediate Spanish.. keep up the great vlogs! 🙂

[@MikeBen]

You're welcome and I'm glad this helps!

[@cassaundraboyd7882]

Thank you so much for this video!!!

[@MikeBen]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TimelyAdventure]

Thanks for sharing all this!

[@MikeBen]

I’m glad this helps!

[@lovestreaming]

Extremely helpful and inspiring! Thank you very much 😎🤘

[@MikeBen]

Im glad these help Erik!

[@LifeinFarmland]

This is packed with all types of resources and ideas. I appreciate this video so so much! Thank you

[@MikeBen]

Thanks and you're welcome, I'm glad it helps!

[@Missycrissy323]

Thanks for the tips! It’s amazing how you’ve set your mind to learning a language despite working so many hours! I’m a stay at home mom so this really gives me hope. My mom is from Colombia but unfortunately I never learned Spanish. In high school I took French so I really need start with the basics. My grandparents just came to the states for a visit and are begging us to visit them in Colombia. I’d love to go but wouldn’t be able to communicate with many relatives. This has really inspired me to finally learn. I just picked up the first book you recommended. I had also started listening to the same audio lessons on Spotify and YT that you mentioned. Thanks for all the extra info! I’ll check out some of those resources.

[@MikeBen]

I’m glad this helps and if you apply yourself you’ll be speaking with your mom and grandparents within the next 6 months - 1 year with very “solid” understandable Spanish

[@govindasgarden]

Thank you so much for all this information! Wishing you all the best.

[@MikeBen]

Thanks and I'm glad this helps!

[@shanisespencer5000]

I really loved this video, thank you. You’ve definitely inspired me to hop on the wagon and take Spanish seriously. I have so many great resources around me Ave can’t wait to see my progress. You’ve done great work, congratulations on your hard work, and thank you for sharing it.

[@MikeBen]

Im glad this helps and sigue adelante!

[@naturallytab]

This was so motivational. I've been tampering with learning Spanish for many years but his year I decided to make it a priority. However, I haven't put in the time like I should. Thanks for the tips and the motivation to keep going. You speak it so well and that was encouraging. My biggest issue is speaking it in front of people and sounding crazy but there are a lot of people here in GA I can practice with so again thanks so much!

[@MikeBen]

You can do it! Que sigas aprendiendo!

[@raemanidoka4269]

This is SO helpful! Thank you!

[@MikeBen]

Im glad this helps! Que sigas aprendiendo!

[@BeammeupSpotty]

thanks. good stuff!!!! thanks for sharing!!!!!

[@MikeBen]

Glad this helps!

[@jessebridges4325]

I’ve always wanted to start a KZbin channel & document my language learning journey. This was so helpful & motivational for taking those first steps, so hopefully I can make some really good progress so i can recommend your channel to other people trying to learn👍🏾

[@MikeBen]

Gracias y sigue adelante con eso!

[@dixztube]

Man you are an inspiration, intelligent guy.

[@MikeBen]

Thanks Rich, I hope this helps!

[@cbspanishlearning24]

Very helpful! Thank you!

[@MikeBen]

De nada!

[@bonitamelendez6896]

Great info thank you so much.😊

[@MikeBen]

Glad that it was helpful!

[@catherine.brennan2838]

This was so helpful, thank you so much for your detailed and insightful process to learning Spanish! I never thought about using workbooks before but I’m definitely checking some out from the library today.

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps!

[@debbyd5729]

KZbin recommended this video a couple of times to me after I watched a couple of reviews on the Madrigal’s Magic book. I’m so glad I finally clicked play. I’m in such awe of your dedication and thoughtful approach to learning Spanish! At the end of your video you wisely recommended finding people who we connect to who have done this journey and you are that! Mom is Mexican and Spanish is her first language. I’m half Latina but don’t really speak Spanish (I could understand it ok as a kid). It’s a point of embarrassment. I really want to get started but have felt overwhelmed. I appreciate your guidance and recommendations on resources that have worked for you. This is really an inspirational video! Gracias! 🙏🏽

[@MikeBen]

De nada and I'm glad that this helps! The connection with your mom's side will be a great motivator!

[@caglakarabay4803]

That was such a useful video!! Amazing tips - Thank you Mike!!

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps!

[@carlwahlstrom5438]

appreciate all of these resources. Thanks so much

[@MikeBen]

I’m glad this helps!

[@LavenderHoneyASMR]

I know this was 2 years ago but I spend $290 a month for a Spanish tutor 2x a week…I feel like I need to shop around more for tutors.. Although I like my tutor, he’s recommending I do 3x a week sessions but it’s kind of pricey. I’m definitely checking out italki! Thank you for these tips! I’ve been writing everything down! Very helpful 🙏🏻

[@MikeBen]

That is a lot. You can spend a third of that and get way more lessons with quality tutors on iTalki. Try it out to see how you like it.

[@marcusm50]

I just came across this video and your channel yesterday, and I'm so glad I did. This video contains a ton of helpful resources. I've been trying to learn Spanish off and on for several years now but finally my new year's resolution for this year was to practice Spanish at least 10 minutes every day so I've been doing DuoLingo primarily. After seeing this video I ordered the Madrigal book (received it today) and have been going through Kieran's 3 minute Spanish lessons and I'm on 79 already (everything has been a refresher so far). I love Kieran's approach and methodology to learning a new language. Thanks again!

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad that this helps and good luck on your journey with Spanish! Sigue adelante!

[@goosed1]

Thank you for making this video. Much appreciated.

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps

[@thedoctorate]

Proud of you man. Great share. Keep expanding and learning. All the best.

[@MikeBen]

Gracias hermano

[@wolfstadt_]

Really nice that you started out by explaining how much you work and have other commitments. When I first clicked on the video I was like "damn he must work in a linguistics field and have all the time in the world to dedicate to studying other languages" which wouldnt have matched my lifestyle at all haha. Awesome vid thanks for the tips!

[@MikeBen]

I'm glad this helps and is relatable. You can do it!

[@jimtso9802]

Mike, this is the best Spanish learning video I have seen so far. Thank you!

[@MikeBen]

You're welcome and I'm glad this was helpful!

[@jencrichlow3442]

I recently discovered your channel and have found these videos really helpful. I wanted to say thank you for introducing me to the Practice Makes Perfect series! I had a lesson with Juan wherein he recommended practicing verb tenses, and I found that the publication had a book just for this. Their methodology is really helpful, and the app that accompanies their book has already improved my recall and speech. Feliz año nuevo!

[@MikeBen]

Igualmente and keep going!

[@Anwesha__]

I’m begging you to please share the pictures of the notebook- you’re so inspiring I’m so happy I came across your video

[@MikeBen]

I lost it unfortunately...

[@dargardargar]

Good find. I speak Japanese and have been mud wrestling Mandarin for 10 years. Your info on language acquisition is a timely way for me to circle back to Spanish (and French) after too many years of non engagement. I'm set to explore South America next year so this resource will come in handy.

[@MikeBen]

Que sigas aprendiendo!