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.

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

Ever gotten a headache while cleaning? Or worse—passed out from your shower spray? In this episode, CJ and the Handy Helper break down the dirty secrets of store-bought cleaners: the hidden toxins, the health risks, and why they’re especially dangerous for kids and pets. You’ll learn what chemicals to avoid, how they impact your hormones and lungs, and how to start ditching the store—one bottle at a time.✅ Real facts, personal stories, and a few laughs😷 Health risks (yes, formaldehyde is in your kitchen spray!)🐾 Why pets and kids are most at risk💸 Why DIY cleaners are cheaper, safer, and just plain smarter🧼 Ready to clean out your cleaning cupboard? Tune in now.🛒 Shop CJ’s Aussie-made hoodies + homestead gear: www.notthefarmerswife.com🎁 Free printables + DIY recipes: www.mojohomestead.net#DitchTheStore #NaturalCleaning #ToxicFreeHome #HomesteadLife

This week’s a special one — we’re jumping off the sourdough and diving into something a little feathery and a whole lot of fun 🐔In this one-off episode, I sit down with my partner to chat about why I genuinely believe every suburban backyard should have chickens. We’re unpacking the benefits (eggs, compost, pest control, and kids learning responsibility), busting a few chicken-keeping myths, and tackling the common pushbacks around noise, smell and council drama.We’re also celebrating the launch of my brand new program — Confident Chicken Keeper — which is open for registration now!Whether you're curious, cautious, or already clucking, this is a fun, real-talk chat about how backyard chickens could be the start of something much bigger.🎙️ Episode Highlights:The cheeky truth about suburban chicken keepingOur funniest (and messiest) chicken momentsHow chickens kickstart a homesteading lifestyleTips for being a “good chicken neighbour”What makes someone chicken-ready🧡 Life’s too short to eat supermarket eggs.

You’ve made the loaf, the crackers, the pancakes — now how do you keep them fresh without daily baking marathons? In this practical episode of Ditch the Store, CJ shares her top tips for freezing, storing and preserving sourdough and other baked goods so nothing goes to waste.Learn how to freeze loaves, slice like a pro, and keep that crust crisp even after defrosting. From school lunches to weekend prep, we’ve got you sorted.✅ How to freeze and defrost loaves properly ✅ Best way to store crackers, pancakes & more ✅ Avoiding soggy crusts and dry middles ✅ What can (and can’t) be frozenSourdough Starter Cheat Sheet  👉 mojohomestead.net/sourdoughstarterAmazon Beeswax Wraps - https://amzn.to/4nmMmpN

Got discard piling up? You’re not alone — and you’re not wasting it either. In this fun and practical episode of Ditch the Store, CJ explains what sourdough discard actually is, why it’s still useful, and how to turn it into delicious everyday snacks.From crunchy crackers to fluffy crumpets and savoury pancakes, we’re going beyond the loaf to make the most of your hard work and flour stash. Plus — you’ll learn how to store discard safely, stretch your starter, and get creative with no-waste baking.✅ What is discard and why you shouldn’t toss it ✅ Easy cracker & crumpet recipes using starter discard ✅ Tips for storage, flavour, and gut-friendly baking ✅ Why discard isn’t ideal for bread, but perfect for snacks 📥 Get Sourdough Starter Cheat Sheet at: mojohomestead.net/sourdoughstarter 📸 Tag @MojoHomestead to share your creations!

What actually is fermentation — and why does it matter so much in sourdough? In this week’s episode of Ditch the Store, CJ takes you beyond the mixing bowl and into the wild world of microbes, gas bubbles, gluten strength and flavour building.Learn how timing, temperature and technique affect the rise, texture and taste of your bread — plus how fermentation makes sourdough easier to digest (yes, even if you’re gluten sensitive!). We’ll also break down how to fit sourdough around your real life — whether you’re juggling kids, cows or a full-time job.✅ What “bulk ferment” actually means✅ Why your dough rises... then flattens✅ What cold proofing is and when to use it✅ How fermentation helps break down gluten✅ When to shape, proof and bake (without second-guessing)📥 Grab your free Sourdough Starter Cheat Sheet at mojohomestead.net/sourdoughstarter📸 Tag @MojoHomestead with your fermenting dough — we want to see those bubbles!

In this super practical episode of Ditch the Store, CJ takes you step-by-step through creating your very own sourdough starter from scratch. You’ll learn exactly what to do, how to troubleshoot the weird smells and goo, and how to use different flours to suit what’s in your pantry. Plus — grab your free 2-week starter tracker to keep yourself (and your new floury friend) on track!You don’t need a bread-making diploma or a fancy kit — just flour, water, and this episode. CJ walks you through the how, why, and what-the-heck-is-that-smell of building a bubbling, living starter. Includes tips on naming your jar-baby and a free printable to keep your sourdough journey on track.Sourdough Starter Cheat Sheet

🎧 Episode 114 – The Sourdough Comeback: Why It’s Worth Your TimeIn this episode, I’m kicking off a brand new sourdough series — croaky voice and all! After a rough run with the flu (and a lovely little bonus round of pleurisy), I’m easing back into the swing of things by diving deep into why sourdough is a perfect fit for the homesteader’s kitchen.You’ll hear about:The real history of sourdough (we’re talking ancient Egypt to gold rush miners)Why proper sourdough bread might not upset your gut like store-bought bread doesHow sourdough connects you to your food, your family, and your farmThe magic of fermentation explained in a way even teenagers can get aroundAnd yes — how I somehow manage to keep my sourdough starter alive (his name’s Harry)If you’re gluten sensitive, curious about ditching commercial yeast, or just want to make bread that costs 50 cents a loaf, this one’s for you.Oh — and we’re on baby watch with Molly the cow. Don’t miss the update at the end!🎁 Live near Canberra? I’m giving away starter from Harry (my 2-year-old mother). Send me a DM @MojoHomestead if you want a piece of the magic.👇 Drop your “N” name ideas (or other letters) for Molly’s calf in the comments or message me!