Really enjoying the forum so far and learning tons with the guides, searches etc. I'm having a hard time not being that guy that just signs up all over and dives in.
So far I cannot seem to find much information on privacy. I have read about Whois protection on domains, but how about on the other stuff like 
Since you are starting out I would just worry about your personal privacy instead of privacy around your data.
I would recommend diving in with a basic set up. You can always upgrade later on.
Yeah I wouldn't stress too much over it.
Enable whois protection just so your name is not in the open and that's it.
Yep listen to bbrock, he's somehow managed to have one of the smallest digital footprints on the planet.
Thanks guys!
Least of your worries 
Focus on making money!