Frontline Season 17 Episode 2 The Farmer's Wife, Part 2

In "Frontline" season 17 episode 2, titled "The Farmer's Wife, Part 2," viewers continue to follow the story of Juanita and Darrel Buschkoetter, a farming couple living in Nebraska. Part 1 of the series introduced viewers to the couple and their struggles to keep their farm afloat amid financial problems and changing economic conditions.

In Part 2, viewers will see how the couple has adapted to their circumstances. They have taken on additional work, including raising hogs and growing crops like potatoes, as they try to keep their farm running. However, they are still struggling with debt, and the pressure is beginning to take a toll on their relationship.

The episode examines how the couple's issues are not unique. Many small farmers across the country are facing similar challenges, including low crop prices, high debt, and competition from large corporations. The episode offers an in-depth look at these larger economic forces and how they impact individual farmers like the Buschkoetters.

In addition to exploring the Buschkoetters' financial struggles, the episode also delves into the couple's personal lives. Juanita is shown caring for their children and managing the household while Darrel is working long hours on the farm. The pressures of their situation are starting to wear on both of them, and tensions occasionally boil over.

"The Farmer's Wife, Part 2" also highlights the ways in which farming has changed over the years. While many farmers have traditionally operated small family farms, today's agriculture industry is dominated by larger corporations. This shift has not only affected individual farmers' livelihoods, but it has also had wider impacts on rural communities and the environment.

Throughout the episode, viewers are encouraged to consider the broader issues at play and how they affect society as a whole. The struggles of the Buschkoetters are a microcosm of larger economic forces, and their story serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting small farmers and sustainable agriculture practices.

Overall, "The Farmer's Wife, Part 2" is a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of the challenges facing small farmers in today's economy. The episode seamlessly weaves together personal narratives with larger political and economic considerations, providing a complex and engaging portrait of a rural community struggling to survive.