If I were to get this game, would anyone set up multiplayer and skype or steam to talk me through this game?

Big request, I would do it if a day had 25 hours :)
You could start by watching some video's on youtube.

Note that the youtube video's can give a good general impression on what the game is about and the general stuff you need to do to build an empire. However all these video's offer very poor insight in what are good / efficient strategies and custom race builds to actually perform well in this game.

Providing 1 link here because the video has some entertainment value and it is elaborate:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4rFkoZXlv8

The quill18 guy that Rocco posted has some good videos on how to play. Is what I used to learn MOO2 at least.

thanks

I can but only on Saturdays. I have played this game since childhood so I know the ins and outs of the game.