Newbie ARF ???
Don't know about the Stearman...haven't seen/flown one, but from experience, I don't think a bi-plane would be a good 'first' airplane.
Being that you might be 'alone' in this endeavor, I'd suggest you invest in FMA's "Co-Pilot" and put that on a trainer. RCM Trainer .40, AeroStar .40 (midwest kit or ARF); Tower Trainer .40 or .60 are all good choices as well as Ace's Trainer .40 and Horizon's Extra Easy...and yes, you could use any .40 sized engine on your next plane - but I'd stay away from a bipe for a second plane also!
Just my $.02...
Jerry