Rip is definitely a character. I spent a good year or two following his program to the best of my ability based upon the equipment I had on hand. I definitely made gains in strength and the poundage I was lifting. Eventually, I just needed a change, mentally and physically. Had I had a better setup to follow the plan, I might have continued with it.
I used to enjoy some of the give and take with him, he is an acquired taste, and if you find his methods appealing, I highly recommend "The Barbell Prescription" by Jonathon Sullivan, M.D. It is based on the Rippetoe methodology but adapted to masters class, senior trainers such as we are. It is a great book and I recommend it unreservedly. I've had numerous email / PM discussions with Sully and he is a gem.
That said, I don't think that the Rippetoe method and what I sketched out above are really a great fit. The Rippetoe methodology requires adherence to their principles and methods. (Sully does discuss the tools he recommends for the limited cardio called for under the Rippetoe training method, and the Concept2 is among the devices recommended, along with a handful handful of others.)
I think you'd really need to consider one style of training or the other to get the best results. Or, come up with your own hybrid...as I often do, but don't expect the same results. (You'll still be fit and stronger, however.) There are many roads to Dublin.