Rooted in purpose, growing for the future: Brad Rhodes and Tyler Hannegan of Robust

Robust Cannabis has earned its reputation as one of Missouri’s premier cultivators through consistent quality, a medical-first approach, and unwavering dedication to organic practices. Co-founders Brad Rhodes and Tyler Hannegan bring unique, complementary backgrounds, Rhodes from cancer research and Missouri’s early hemp programs, and Hannegan from healthcare administration, to shape a company that’s rooted in science and purpose.

“We really set out to be a differentiator in the marketplace,” Hannegan said. “Our backgrounds are very focused on the medicinal components. Brad comes from cancer research and was one of the original hemp license holders in Missouri. My background is in healthcare administration. That foundation guides everything we do.”

Operating out of a greenhouse environment with living soil and sun-grown techniques, Robust prides itself on organic cultivation. “You get a profile and an end product that you can’t get through any other medium,” Rhodes explained. “We grow with the soil and the sun, and that changes everything.”

Robust’s integrated pest management program uses only beneficial insects and organic inputs. “We deploy hundreds of thousands of predatory mites and other beneficials each month. It’s the most natural way to keep pests at bay,” Rhodes said. “We’re never going to put anything on our plants that we wouldn’t consume ourselves.”

That philosophy is present throughout Robust’s operation. Weekly soil testing, a refined nutrient regimen, and meticulous phenotype selection ensure each cultivar lives up to internal standards. “Our focus isn’t on potency,” Rhodes emphasized. “We’re hunting for the full profile, terpenes, cannabinoids, and the nuances that create a complex, memorable experience.”

The cultivar catalog includes about 22 mainstays with another 14 in testing. “We don’t let genetics run the garden,” Hannegan said. “They need to work with our setup, not the other way around.”

Robust is also well known for its solventless extracts and innovative products. The Hashirasen capsule line, made from solventless rosin, medical-grade MCT oil, and vegan capsules, remains a standout. “It only makes up about 1% of the market, but it’s one of our favorite products,” Hannegan said. “It’s sugar-free, discreet, and incredibly effective.”

   

Looking ahead, Robust is focused on what comes next,from flower to hash. Piatella hash is already in development, with Rhodes and the team aiming to bring the rare, slow-cured product to more Missouri consumers. The Robust Reserve label will continue to highlight limited-run, high-performing flower, including cultivars like Apples and Bananas #2, Scented Marker #1, and Hash Burger.

“We’re always looking for that next special plant,” Rhodes said. “The best genetics make the best medicine. Hunting from seed, in our garden environment, gives us unique expressions that stand apart.”

Upcoming releases include Tahiti Lime, Master Kush, Green Guap, and Lemon Straws. Robust is also exploring the launch of new blends like Heavenly Limes, pairing rosin from Heavenly Sativa with Tahiti Lime, and working on incorporating FECO into its capsule line.

Beyond cultivation, Robust continues to invest in retail at its flagship dispensary, Feel State Florissant, one of the highest-reviewed dispensaries in the country. “It’s about consistency and experience, from the garden to the shelf,” Hannegan said.

“We believe this plant can change lives,” Rhodes added. “And we’re here to grow the best possible version of it, every single day.”

To learn more about Robust and keep up-to-date, find them at www.robustmo.com.