Tate uses the analogy of a three-legged milking stool to describe his gauge of success: “(within the business) Planet, profit and people each have to be equally nurtured for the stool to function.” He describes the farm as a mission and recalls the zeal of youth in the 1950s and 1960s. His circle of friends was inspired by back-to-land writers like Scott and Helen Nearing whose 1954 book, Living the Good Life, and other titles informed a generation seeking authenticity, a more just society and environmental stewardship.