Hey Bud,
I feel like a kindred spirit finding another with a passion for the half-step+granny! We've independently arrived at the same rear cluster and the same front middle and outer chain wheel difference, mine a 44 / 41. My first half-stepper was n the mid-70's, so some might think I drank the kool-aid early🤣. I describe the setup to others as a wide range compact with an option to "fine-tune" the upper range.

As to cross-chaining, if so many now run 1x10 / 1x11 / 1x12 it seems that the industry is now saying it's really not much of a problem. Only remaining problem would be the chain rubbing the next outer rings when on an inner or middle. Not the classic definition of cross-chaining!

One problem with half-stepping now-a-days is sourcing odd-toothed chain wheels. Other than TA Carmina/Zephyr do you know any others?

Another issue is the availability of front mechs. Mountain triples don't work. Any modern racing doubles work? The old ones often did (SunTour Cyclone & Superb, Campy Record & NR, even the delicate Heuret Jubalee!, among many)