Welcome Scott!

I recommend that you leave the FT bare (only water and fish) to ease removal of solids. Any media in the FT will trap solids where you don't want them. Then I would add dedicated filtration (a simple aquarium filter, or you can put together a DIY setup). As far as the GB, consider starting out with a floating raft system (DWC) and initially growing greens/herbs. This is the easiest and most likely system to have success, IMO, and will serve you well as you learn the in's and out's of the AP world.