Ditch The Store

This is it — your first proper sourdough loaf! CJ takes you step-by-step through mixing, folding, shaping, proofing, and baking a real, edible loaf of sourdough bread (yes, even if you’re still getting to know your starter). No fluff, no perfectionism — just solid advice from someone who’s made plenty of bricks before nailing the crusty beauty. Let’s bake!📸 Show me your loaf! Tag @MojoHomestead on Instagram or TikTok — I wanna see that crust crack! 💌 Still need the free starter tracker? Get it at 👉 https://www.ditchthestore.com/sourdoughstarter🎧 Next episode: Timing the Ferment – Folds, Proofing, Baking → The nerdy stuff (made simple!) that makes good bread great.

It’s time to talk about the stuff under your boots — soil.Industrial farming has turned living earth into lifeless dirt, and the fertiliser companies are cashing in on the damage. In this episode, we dig into how Big Ag broke the soil — and how you can fix it in your own backyard.🌾 In this episode:What’s really killing our soilsThe fertiliser myth that’s keeping farmers brokeHow to bring your soil back to life naturallyCompost, worms, and microbes — your real soil armyBecause if the soil dies, so does our food. And rebuilding it starts with us.

The backyard veggie patch isn’t just about saving a few dollars — it’s about taking back control of your food.In this episode, we’re talking about why growing even one tomato plant is a quiet act of rebellion against a food system that’s broken, overpriced, and overprocessed.🌱 In this episode:Why growing food matters more than everThe truth about supermarket dependenceHow home gardening builds independence and resilienceTurning your backyard (or balcony!) into a personal food revolutionThis one’s for the doers — the people ready to take their food supply into their own hands and say, “No thanks, I’ll grow my own.”

Every goat keeper faces it sooner or later — Barber’s Pole Worm, the bloodsucking parasite that can take down even the healthiest doe overnight.In this episode, we’re diving deep into how to recognise, prevent, and manage Barber’s Pole Worm without relying on constant chemical drenches.🐐 In this episode:What Haemonchus contortus actually is — and why it’s so dangerousEarly warning signs and how to use the FAMACHA card properlyThe truth about faecal egg counts (FECs) and what your results really meanPasture management tips that break the worm life cycleHow to use COWP boluses safely to support resistanceNatural vs chemical treatments — what actually works and what’s just hypePost-treatment recovery and building long-term herd resilience🎙️ Whether you’re running a small herd or a full farm, this is your go-to guide for staying ahead of worms and keeping your goats thriving.LinksDr Sandra Baxendell - https://goatvetoz.com.au/homeWormBoss - https://wormboss.com.au/FAMACHA - https://animal.ifas.ufl.edu/media/animalifasufledu/small-ruminant-website/fact-sheets/FAMACHA-Factsheet.pdf

Raw goat’s milk is one of the most talked-about — and sometimes controversial — topics in the homesteading world. In this episode, we’ll unpack the benefits, the risks, and how to handle raw milk safely so you can decide if it’s right for your homestead.🥛 In this episode:Nutritional benefits of raw goat’s milk vs cow’s milkSafety concerns and how to reduce risks with good hygieneHow to store and use raw milk at homeWhy raw milk is more than just food — it’s part of food sovereignty💡 Resources to explore:Raw Milk Institute — education & standards for safe raw milkJannei Goat Dairy — an Australian raw goat milk storyRaw milk is a deeply personal choice — and this episode gives you the tools to make an informed one.📥 More goat-keeping resources at: www.mojohomestead.net📸 Share how you use your raw goat’s milk with @MojoHomestead.

So you’ve got goats — now it’s time to fill the bucket! In this episode, we’re walking through exactly how to milk a goat, from the first squeeze to storing that fresh milk in your fridge.🐐 In this episode:When to start milking after kiddingSetting up your milking space and equipmentStep-by-step milking routine (without the fuss)Hygiene tips for safe, long-lasting milkHow to store and handle your milk to keep it freshWhether you’re brand new to goats or just want to refine your routine, this episode will give you the confidence to sit down on the stool and get milking.📥 More goat-keeping resources at: www.mojohomestead.net📸 Share your milking set-up with @MojoHomestead — we’d love to see your dairy in action!

Sometimes goat kids can’t stay on mum — and that’s when bottle-feeding steps in. In this episode, we’re covering everything you need to know about raising bottle babies with confidence.🍼 In this episode:When and why to bottle-feed (rejection, multiples, weak kids, or management choice)Colostrum and the first 24 hoursFeeding schedules and what to feedPreventing bloat and scoursBonding and training benefits of bottle babiesBottle babies take more work, but they also become some of the friendliest, easiest goats you’ll ever own.📥 Learn more and grab goat-keeping resources at: www.mojohomestead.net📸 Share your bottle baby photos and tag @MojoHomestead — we’d love to see them grow!

Episode 135: Doe-Raised KidsWhen goat kids arrive, you’ve got two choices: raise them on mum or step in with a bottle. In this episode, we’re talking about the natural way — letting kids stay with their doe.🐐 In this episode:The benefits of doe-raised kids: natural growth, immunity, and less work for youThe challenges: sharing milk, weaning, and tamingHow to manage kids while they’re on mumTips for keeping both doe and kids healthy, happy, and easy to handleWhether you’re new to goats or planning your next kidding season, this episode will give you the confidence to manage doe-raised kids successfully.📥 Read more and grab goat-keeping resources at: www.mojohomestead.net📸 Share your goat kid pics with @MojoHomestead — we’d love to see them!

So, you’ve got your goats — now it’s time to plan for baby goats! 🐐 In this episode, we’re walking through the full kidding journey, from breeding and pregnancy right through to birth, kid care, and weaning.I’ll talk through what age to breed, how to choose between bucks and artificial insemination, signs of labour, what to expect during birth, and how to care for those squishy little newborns once they arrive.Whether you’re gearing up for your first kidding season or just thinking ahead, this episode will give you the confidence and practical know-how to handle it like a pro.🎙️ Topics covered:When and how to breed your goatsBuck vs AI: what I use and whyPreparing for labourWhat’s normal during birth (and what’s not)Colostrum, bonding, disbudding, and weaningReal talk from someone who’s done it — and learnt along the way

You don’t need a fancy goat barn or electric fortress to keep goats safe — but you do need to plan ahead. In this episode, we’re getting practical about what your dairy goats actually need when it comes to shelter, fencing, and paddock layout.I cover shelter ideas for different weather, what makes a fence truly goat-proof, and how to protect your herd from predators (without breaking the bank). Whether you’re just getting started or tweaking your current setup, this one’s full of helpful tips to keep your goats safe, comfy, and right where they belong.🎙️ Topics covered:Goat housing basics (keep it dry, simple, and secure)Fencing that works (and what doesn’t)Paddock design & gate tipsPredator protectionBonus tips for feeding & shelter placement👉 Perfect for beginners or anyone adding goats to their homestead.

Not all dairy goats are created equal — and choosing the right breed can make a big difference to your homesteading success.In this episode, I walk you through the most common dairy goat breeds in Australia (and a few lesser-known ones), comparing milk production, cream levels, personality, and how much space they really need. Whether you're feeding a big family or just want rich milk for cheese, butter or soap, there’s a breed that’ll suit your setup.I’ll also share what I wish I knew before I bought my first goat, why I’m leaning into Nigerian Dwarfs now, and a few red flags to watch out for when buying your first milker.👉 Great for beginners, backyard dairy dreamers, and anyone planning their first herd.🎙️ Topics Covered:Best goat breeds for milk, cream, and butterHow much milk you really needSmall-property friendly goatsLoud vs quiet breedsWhat to ask breeders before buyingWhy temperament matters in the milking shed🛠️ Bonus:Tips for buying your first goats, avoiding dodgy sellers, and getting the support you need as a new goat owner.Listen to this old episode to learn about "Why Drink Raw Milk?" https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/mvJ3qzEFnQb

Thinking about adding a dairy goat to your homestead? In this episode, we chat through everything you actually need to know before you bring one home.I share the story of why we got goats in the first place (spoiler: it started with my son’s supposed lactose intolerance), plus the real-life pros, cons, and must-haves when it comes to owning dairy goats. We’ll talk costs, fencing, daily care, milking, and some common myths that might surprise you.Whether you’re still dreaming or nearly ready to dive in, this episode will help you work out if goats are right for your setup — and your sanity.👉 Perfect for beginner homesteaders, backyard dairy dreamers, or anyone keen to get off the supermarket milk treadmill.🎙️ Topics covered:What goats need (and what they don’t)Daily milking routines and time commitmentsFencing tips and housing setupsGoat milk vs pasteurised milkChoosing your first two goats wisely🔗 Links mentioned:Raw Milk InstituteGoat expert Dr Sandra Baxendell

Some jobs feel too big to tackle — baked-on oven grime, greasy BBQ plates, rusty tools, even that sad-looking cast iron pan. But you don’t need toxic sprays or expensive “specialty” cleaners to get results.In this week’s Natural Cleaning Series finale, we’re diving into the heavy hitters with safe, affordable, and effective DIY methods.🔥 In this episode:Why oven sprays, degreasers & rust removers can harm your health and septic systemSimple pantry-staple recipes for:Oven cleaner pasteBBQ plate degreaserLemon & salt rust removerGentle cast iron cleaningHow to re-season your cast iron so it lasts a lifetimeTools & pro tips for getting big jobs done without chemicals💡 If you’ve been putting off the “too hard” cleaning jobs, this episode is your permission to dive in — naturally.📥 Follow us at: www.mojohomestead.net📸 Show us your before & after pics — tag @MojoHomestead.

Glass cleaners are one of the most over-marketed — and overpriced — products in the cleaning aisle. In this week’s Natural Cleaning Series episode, we’re ditching the ammonia fumes, single-use plastic, and streaky finishes for a safe, affordable, and effective homemade solution.🪟 In this episode:Why ammonia-based cleaners aren’t great for your lungs, skin, or septicThe hidden cost (and waste) of store-bought spraysA simple 4-ingredient DIY glass cleaner that works on windows, mirrors, chrome & stainless steelStreak-free technique tips — and when not to clean your windowsBonus uses for your homemade spray around the home and even in the car✨ Cheaper. Safer. Zero streaks.📸 Share your “window glow-up” and tag @MojoHomestead. 🧼 Next week: Natural Cleaning for the Tough Stuff.

Episode 128: Bathroom Cleaning Without the ToxinsYour bathroom might sparkle, but at what cost?In this episode of the Natural Cleaning Series, we’re tackling one of the most chemical-heavy rooms in the house — the bathroom. From bleach sprays to mould removers, we’ll break down the hidden health and environmental risks, and show you how to swap them for safe, affordable, and effective DIY alternatives.🧼 In this episode:Why bleach, ammonia, and synthetic fragrances aren’t as “fresh” as they seemHow commercial cleaners affect your skin, lungs, septic, and greywater systems3 simple DIY bathroom recipes that do it all:Fizzing toilet cleanerMould & mildew sprayTile & grout scrubTips for keeping your bathroom fresh without toxic spraysTea Tree Essential Oil - https://amzn.to/44OI8A0Lavender Essential Oil - https://amzn.to/4kTpX0wLemon Essential Oil - https://amzn.to/3GRPb1APeppermint Essential Oil - https://amzn.to/41cdD4vEucalyptus Essential Oil - https://amzn.to/3UrLSBf🌿 Healthier for you. Kinder to the planet. Easier on your wallet.📥 Grab the recipes here: www.mojohomestead.net📸 Tried them? Tag @MojoHomestead — we love seeing your results. 🧽 Next week: Window & Mirror Cleaning Without the Streaks.

Ditch the Store, Clean the SinkStore-bought dish soaps and dishwasher tabs might leave your dishes shiny, but what else are they leaving behind?In this episode of our Natural Cleaning Series, we're diving into what’s really in conventional dishwashing products — from synthetic fragrances and surfactants to phosphates and formaldehyde-releasing compounds. We’ll also chat about how these chemicals don’t just vanish down the drain — they end up in your soil, your waterways, and potentially… on your cutlery.🧪 What you’ll learn:Why natural dishwashing matters for your skin, gut, and gardenThe environmental impact of phosphates, rinse aids, and non-biodegradable sudsHow to make your own liquid dish soap and dishwasher tabs — for less than 10c a washWhat studies say about chemical residue on your dishes — and what it might be doing to your gut liningWhy citric acid is safe to use but still needs supervision with kidsWhether you wash by hand or load the machine, these two DIY recipes will clean up your kitchen and your conscience.🍋 Ready to ditch the bottle? Tune in now, and grab your printable recipe + label set at www.mojohomestead.net📸 Tag your creations @MojoHomestead

🎧 Episode 126: Homemade Laundry ProductsThe Load Down: Homemade Laundry Products That Actually WorkGot sensitive skin? Sick of spending a fortune on detergents that smell like a fake rainforest? In this episode, we’re getting stuck into homemade laundry solutions that actually work.We’ll chat through:The chemicals hiding in supermarket laundry products (and what they’re doing to your skin and our waterways)How to make your own laundry powder with bicarb, washing soda, salt, and Sunlight soapSimple fabric softener and stain soaker recipesReal answers to FAQs about cold water washing, machine safety, and more🧺 Bonus? Our homemade recipe avoids the irritants and mystery ingredients flagged by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) — and it costs next to nothing.Let’s ditch the toxic load and take back our washing machine. 🎙️ Tune in, try it, and tag @MojoHomestead with your results!👉 Get more info and follow us at  www.mojohomestead.net

This week on Ditch the Store, CJ dives into the essential oils that actually pull their weight in a clean home. These aren’t just for diffusers — we’re talking mold-fighting, degreasing, deodorizing powerhouses.✅ Top 5 oils that clean AND smell amazing ✅ How to use and store them safely ✅ What’s safe for kids and pets ✅ How to build your own blends🎁 Join our mailing list at: www.mojohomestead.net 🛒 Farm gear & funny aprons: www.notthefarmerswife.com🎧 Related Episodes:Ep. 124 – One Spray to Rule Them AllEp. 123 – Deep Cleaning the Natural Way#naturalcleaning #essentialoils #homesteadcleaning #ditchthestore #greenclean #diycleaners

Ep. 124 – One Spray to Rule Them All: My Simple All-Purpose Cleaner You don't need a dozen overpriced bottles under your sink — you just need one. In this episode, CJ shares her go-to DIY all-purpose spray recipe that’s safe, powerful, and actually works. Whether you’re wiping down the kitchen, sprucing up the bathroom, or disinfecting surfaces — this is your everyday hero.✅ The recipe (and why each ingredient matters) ✅ The best essential oils for cleaning ✅ What to avoid using vinegar on ✅ Surface-specific tweaks for glass, wood, and stone ✅ Add-ins to make it disinfect or degrease even better🎧 Also listen to: 👉 Ep. 122 – Toxic Truth: Why You Should Ditch Chemical Cleaners 👉 Ep. 123 – Deep Cleaning the Natural Way (That Actually Works)🎁 Freebies at: www.mojohomestead.net🛒 Shop cheeky aprons + Aussie-made farm gear: 👕 www.notthefarmerswife.com#naturalcleaning #allpurposecleaner #ditchthestore #greenclean #castilesoap #homesteadcleaning #diycleaners

Sick of bleach fumes and overpriced “miracle sprays”? In this episode of Ditch the Store, CJ reveals how to deep clean your home naturally and effectively using just 3–5 ingredients. From oven grime to mold and grout, you’ll get the real-life, homesteader-approved methods that actually work.✅ Oven paste recipe ✅ Mold-fighting vinegar & tea tree spray ✅ Grout scrub trick ✅ Disinfection without harsh chemicals ✅ What tools and oils are best ✅ What NOT to clean with vinegar📌 Related Episode – Ep. 122: Toxic Truth: Why You Should Ditch the Chemical Cleaners at the link below https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/mojo-homestead/episodes/Episode-122--Toxic-Truth-Why-You-Should-Ditch-Chemical-Cleaners-e350ojk🎁 Check out our blog at: www.mojohomestead.net 🛍️ Farm-themed hoodies & home gear: www.notthefarmerswife.com#ditchthestore #naturalcleaning #chemicalfreehome #homesteadcleaning #greenclean #mojohomestead