The Atlas Obscura Podcast

The Day the Tractors Stood Still

Sep 11, 2024
Jason Koebler, a journalist focused on technology and agriculture, delves into a crisis when tractors malfunction across the Midwest during planting season. He uncovers the surprising role Ukrainian hackers play in this turmoil and the ongoing struggle between farmers and John Deere over repair rights. The discussion highlights the vulnerabilities of modern farming, especially amidst tech failures caused by a solar storm. Koebler illustrates how farmers are navigating these challenges with creativity and resilience, even as they confront systemic corporate issues.
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