Secret public transportation option between Omaha and Kansas City?

I have a trip booked on Amtrak Southwest Chief headed west from KC in a few weeks. Initially, my spouse was going to drive me down from Omaha and we were going to spend the day visiting friends before I hopped on the train, but a surprise visit from family has marred that plan, so I’m trying to figure out an alternative option.

All I see is a Jefferson Lines bus leaving daily from Omaha at 11pmish, arriving in KC at 4am - deeply sub-ideal. Or I can take the Zephyr east, and transfer to my train in Illinois, adding just 17 hours and $300 to the trip. Then there’s Uberlyft it for like $400.

My question is, does anyone know of any other esoteric transportation options between these two fairly large, fairly neighboring cities that might not pop up in a search? Local shuttle services or clandestine rideshares?

Why don’t I just fly? I’m a train freak and was hoping to ride the rails but looks like it’ll just be too crushingly inconvenient. Thanks!