Episode 144 - So You Wanna Be a Homesteader?

Happy New Year and welcome to Episode 144 of the podcast!We’re kicking off 2026 by going back to basics — because let’s face it, a lot’s changed in the last couple of years and it’s time for a reset.

This month on the podcast, we’re talking all things beginner homesteading — where to start, what to think about before diving in, what you absolutely don’t need, and how to avoid that slap-in-the-face overwhelm that can knock you sideways when you try to do too much, too soon.

Whether you’re dreaming of backyard chooks, a veggie patch, or just making your own soap and skipping the supermarket aisle, this episode is your practical and honest starting point.

I’ll share:

• My journey from suburban block to 120 acres in the Southern Tablelands

• Why homesteading isn’t about perfection, or even farming

• The real reasons people are ditching the store and taking back control

• The gateway drugs of homesteading (spoiler: it’s probably chickens)

• And my top 5 tips for getting started without losing your mind

Plus, I’ll be talking about how 2026 is my year of no hospital visits (you’ll get it when you listen) and what’s coming up for Ditch the Store, Not the Farmer’s Wife, and our new printables and course launches.

🛒 Books by CJ Steedman

• Brooder to Plate – Raising Meat Chickens the Practical Way

• Eggs Without Cartons – coming soon to Amazon! Keep an eye out!

🌱 Mojo Homestead Freebies, Courses & Printables→ https://www.mojohomestead.net – Sign up for the newsletter and grab your freebies to help plan your homestead journey.

👕 Homestead-Themed Gear (T-shirts, Towels, Linens & More)→ www.notthefarmerswife.com – Practical and fun products for real homesteaders, not influencers.

What's your why for wanting to start homesteading this year? Leave a comment or message me on socials – I’d love to hear your goals for 2026.

🎧 Next Week (Ep. 145): What Even Is Homesteading?We’ll dig into the definition — what it is, what it isn’t, and why you don’t need a farm (or a flowing linen dress) to do it right.

📚 Mentioned in this episode💬 Let’s Chat