Hey everyone, and welcome to Episode 145 of Ditch the Store!

We’re officially a week into 2026 (can you believe it?), and after a cracking start with last week’s beginner episode, this week I’m diving into the big question: What even is homesteading?

Because let’s face it — everyone seems to have their own definition. From off-grid living to growing herbs on a balcony, homesteading can mean very different things depending on where you live, what you have, and what you’re aiming for.

In this episode, I’m unpacking:

• 🏡 The real (and historical) definition of homesteading

• 🌱 The difference between homesteading and farming

• 👩‍🌾 What homesteading looked like for me growing up — and how it’s evolved

• 🐓 Key elements like self-sufficiency, food preservation, backyard chickens, and more

• 🧼 The skills you might need (yes, even soap-making counts!)

• 🧘‍♀️ Busting the myths: You don’t need to quit your job or move to the bush

• ✍️ How to define your version of homesteading — and why that’s what truly matters

Whether you’re working full-time in the city, wrangling kids in suburbia, or halfway to building a goat shed on a few acres, this episode will help you clarify your goals and get honest about what homesteading means to you.

🌿 Grab your FREE resources and join the newsletter
👉 www.mojohomestead.net

• Includes the 7 Must-Knows for Backyard Chicken Keeping – great for newbies and seasoned chook-lovers alike!

👕 Browse practical homesteading gear & gifts
👉 www.notthefarmerswife.com

• T-shirts, linens, tools, and more for actual homesteaders (not Instagram ones 😉)

📚 Books by CJ Steedman

• Brooder to Plate

• Eggs Without Cartons – coming soon!

🧑‍🏫 Backyard Chicken Course – Reopening Soon!

• A practical, down-to-earth online course for first-time chicken keepers

• Keep an eye on www.mojohomestead.net or follow me on socials for the launch date

👩‍💻 Join the new Mojo Homestead SKOOL community

• Share your wins, ask questions, and connect with others on the homesteading journey.

• Free to join – details at mojohomestead.net

Got a 2026 homesteading goal? Let me know!
📸 Tag me @mojohomestead on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok when you:

• Bake your first sourdough

• Make a bar of soap

• Get those first backyard chickens

• Ditch one more thing from the store

Because remember — every single time you skip the shops, you’re homesteading. And that’s worth celebrating 💚

How Much Land Do You Actually Need to Homestead?
Spoiler: It’s probably less than you think. Whether you’ve got a balcony or 100 acres, we’ll break it down and look at what’s truly needed to grow, raise, or make your own.