The Team

At Hemp Gaia, our team is the backbone of everything we do. With a shared passion for innovation, transparency, and community, we are dedicated to transforming the Texas hemp industry and creating high-quality products you can trust. From experienced industry leaders to forward-thinking innovators, our team works tirelessly to deliver excellence in every product and service we provide. Together, we’re building a sustainable future for hemp, one step at a time.

The Boss

Rhiannon is a trailblazing entrepreneur, advocate, and leader in the cannabis industry, driving innovation, policy reform, and business growth. With over a decade of hands-on experience in launching and scaling cannabis ventures, she has played a pivotal role in shaping compliance standards, market strategies, and sustainable practices. Now, as the founder and CEO of Hemp Gaia, she is bringing her expertise to Texas, working to expand the hemp industry through transparency, education, and strategic partnerships. Passionate about bridging the gap between policy and progress, Rhiannon is committed to empowering farmers, businesses, and consumers while helping to shape the future of hemp on both state and federal levels.

The Ganja Journey

Building Businesses & Innovating in the Cannabis Industry

Rhiannon Dee Yard has been at the forefront of the cannabis and hemp industries for over a decade, launching and scaling multiple businesses that drive innovation, compliance, and sustainability.

The Ganja Journey

Entrepreneurial Journey

🌿 Hemp Gaia (Founder & CEO)

As the Founder & CEO of Hemp Gaia, Rhiannon is leading the Texas hemp industry by developing a retail, manufacturing, and distribution hub that prioritizes transparency, education, and high-quality hemp products. Hemp Gaia focuses on federally legal collaborations and sustainable business practices, helping to bridge the gap between compliance and consumer trust.

🐰 Rabbit Ridge Ranch (Co-Founder & CTO, Treasurer)

Rhiannon owner/operator of Rabbit Ridge Ranch, a multi-licensed commercial cannabis cultivation business in California. She managed technology development, compliance, financial strategy, and operational growth, helping establish Rabbit Ridge Ranch as a reputable supplier in the regulated market.

💼 Ganja Souls (Founder & CEO)

Through Ganja Souls, Rhiannon built a cannabis consultancy and software platform that streamlined compliance and business processes for entrepreneurs navigating the highly regulated industry.

🛠 Industry Impact & Legacy

With her hands-on experience in building compliant, scalable cannabis businesses, Rhiannon brings expertise in strategy, leadership, and technology-driven solutions to every venture she leads. Now, with Hemp Gaia, she is continuing to push boundaries and elevate the Texas hemp market with a strong vision for the future.

Industry Advocacy & Policy Work

Rhiannon has been a leading advocate for hemp policy reform in Texas, working directly with industry leaders, regulators, and lawmakers to establish fair, transparent regulations that support hemp businesses and farmers.

Rhiannon’s work is not just about business—it’s about creating a sustainable, thriving hemp industry that benefits farmers, businesses, and consumers alike.

Shaping the Future of Texas Hemp Through Policy & Advocacy

📝 Hemp Policy & Legislation

  • Author of the Hemp Farmers Protection Act – A policy initiative aimed at securing rights, transparency, and fair regulations for Texas hemp farmers.
  • Editorial Contributor for the Texas Hemp Reporter – Writing about balancing regulation and innovation, including proposals for state-certified hemp programs through Go Texan and Texas Farm Fresh certifications.
  • Policy Paper: "Shaping the Future of the Texas Hemp Industry" – A comprehensive analysis of challenges, opportunities, and pathways for growth in Texas' hemp sector.

👥 Industry Advocacy & Leadership

  • Meeting with Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller – Discussed industry concerns, resulting in a shift away from THC ban support.
  • Developing a Code of Conduct for Texas Hemp Retailers – Establishing clear ethical and operational standards for businesses.
  • Championing Transparency & Compliance – Advocating for vendor accountability through inventory auditing and lab testing.

Education & Business Acumen

Rhiannon holds an MBA with an emphasis in Executive Communications from Baylor University and a B.A. in Communications-Journalism from California Polytechnic University (Cal Poly). Her academic background, combined with her real-world leadership in the cannabis industry, gives her a unique edge in business strategy, policy development, and brand building.

How Rhiannon’s Education Fuels Her Leadership & Innovation

📊 How Her MBA Shapes Her Leadership

Strategic Growth & Market Positioning – Applying data-driven insights to scale businesses efficiently in the competitive hemp market.

Financial Acumen – Leveraging expertise in financial management, forecasting, and investment strategies to build sustainable ventures.

Executive Communications & Leadership – Strengthening brand messaging, negotiations, and industry partnerships for long-term succes

🛠 Applying Knowledge to the Hemp Industry

Rhiannon’s ability to blend regulatory expertise with entrepreneurial vision makes her a trusted leader in the space. She uses her knowledge to educate stakeholders, advocate for fair policy, and drive sustainable business practices that uplift the entire industry.

Beyond Business: Personal Passions

Rhiannon’s entrepreneurial drive is matched by her passion for living a balanced, active, and fulfilling life.

Rhiannon’s entrepreneurial drive is matched by her passion for a balanced, active life. Whether working out, spending time with her horses Tango and Primus, or enjoying music, she stays energized and inspired, fueling both her business and personal growth.

Horses, Fitness, Music, and a Vision for the Future

🐎 Horses & Equine Expertise

A lifelong equestrian, Rhiannon has a deep love for horses. She is the proud owner of Tango, her 22-year-old draft cross, who has been her loyal partner for years. Horses have taught her discipline, patience, and the value of connection, lessons she applies in business, advocacy, and life.

🏋️‍♀️ Orangetheory Fitness & Active Lifestyle

Committed to health and wellness, Rhiannon works out at Orangetheory Fitness, balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with an active, energized lifestyle.

🎸 Music & Creative Expression

A fan of live music, Rhiannon enjoys playing guitar and ukulele, embracing creativity as a way to stay inspired and connected to her community.

🌱 Vision for Hemp’s Future

Rhiannon envisions a thriving hemp industry that supports local farmers, educates consumers, and fosters sustainable growth. Through Hemp Gaia, advocacy, and policy work, she is dedicated to making this vision a reality.