The Momentum Group Presents: Real Talk Fridays

An Audience With Jess Gough: A Modern Smallholder: The Road to Self-Sufficiency

What does self-sufficiency really look like in 2026, and is it possible without giving up modern life?

In this engaging and refreshingly honest Real Talk Fridays session, Jess Gough invites us into her world as a modern smallholder, sharing how she transformed a patch of land in Somerset into a thriving, wildlife-rich homestead while still working full time.

From growing almost all her own fruit and vegetables to keeping chickens, ducks, bees and pigs, and even brewing her own beer, Jess tells the real story behind the dream.

She shares what’s worked, what hasn’t, and the lessons learned along the way, with practical tips and down-to-earth insights you can actually use. Rooted in organic growing and working with nature, Jess explores how encouraging biodiversity builds resilience, boosts productivity, and makes food growing more joyful and sustainable.

Motivated by the hugely positive impact gardening has had on her own wellbeing, Jess launched @happy_smallholding in 2023 to inspire others to start growing their own food, whatever their space, time or experience level.

Her message is simple and empowering: self-sufficiency isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress, passion, and getting your hands dirty.

Perfect for aspiring growers, smallholders and anyone curious about living closer to the land and nature, this talk will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to take your own first (or next) step towards a more self-sufficient life.

Tickets: £18