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This Founder Explains Why He Had to Start Telling Retailers 'No' -- and How It Helped His Business Succeed Greg Steltenpohl set out to make plant-based milk. But when his product became too popular, he had to make some tough decisions.

By Jason Feifer

Califia Farms

This is an episode of our podcast Problem Solvers. Each week, an entrepreneur reveals how they overcame an unexpected problem in their business -- and were happier and more successful as a result. The show is hosted by Entrepreneur's editor in chief, Jason Feifer. Listen below, or subscribe on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Califia Farms makes a popular line of plant-based milks, yogurts and coffees -- but they became too popular, too quick. In 2017, demand began significantly outstripping supply. The company had to start telling retailers "no," while it fixed its entire production system.

Learn about the drastic measures Califia made and how they were able to rebound in this week's Problem Solvers podcast.

Related: A Founder Shares What to Do When Your Staff Can't Agree on a Vision for the Company

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Jason Feifer

Entrepreneur Staff

Editor in Chief

Jason Feifer is the editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine and host of the podcast Problem Solvers. Outside of Entrepreneur, he is the author of the book Build For Tomorrow, which helps readers find new opportunities in times of change, and co-hosts the podcast Help Wanted, where he helps solve listeners' work problems. He also writes a newsletter called One Thing Better, which each week gives you one better way to build a career or company you love.

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