Isolated from federation is a personal dealbreaker (though I’m aware of its many difficulties), but I wish you success in creating a vibrant community based on your philosophy.

Overall sounds like a laissez-faire approach to moderation: though I’d be interested to hear more specifically on your values and philosophy that guides you.

Beehaw is an example of a well-defined philosophy and its similarity to your potential server appears to be a holistic approach to moderation. Still, there are many people who get upset on forums and think that Beehaw’s moderation actions are too harsh and there’s no such thing as “free speech” on that (or frankly any Lemmy) community. I found that most people banned due to somewhat toxic behaviour were given ample warnings.

Have a look at the stuff @gaywallet@beehaw.org has written at great length on the philosophies, and principles Beehaw was founded on, and important discussions that have come up when it comes to fostering a community with that in mind.

You can use it to determine whether you are aiming for that kind of place minus the federation, or key value differences or areas you think better match your ethos.