E49: Why Accel Backed Campfire to Build the Modern GL, with John Glasgow, CEO

In this episode, Sasha Orloff talks with John Glasgow, CEO & CFO of Campfire, about building an AI-native ERP system that streamlines finance workflows through automation and faster month-end close. Fresh from raising $35 million, John shares insights on modernizing legacy systems, the challenges of building complex financial software, and why now is the right time to innovate in accounting tech. -- SPONSORS: Notion Boost your startup with Notion—the ultimate connected workspace trusted by thousands worldwide! From engineering specs to onboarding and fundraising, Notion keeps your team organized and efficient. For a limited time, get 6 months of Notion AI FREE to supercharge your workflow. Claim your offer now at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://notion.com/startups/puzzle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Puzzle 📈  No more waiting for month's end. No more manual reconciliations, just financials that keep up with you. Puzzle is leading a new movement with an AI first ledger, built for speed, automation, and real time decision making. Join today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://puzzle.io/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -- RECOMMENDED IN THIS EPISODE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnglasgow https://campfire.ai/ -- X/SOCIAL: @john__glasgow (John) @sashaorloff (Sasha) -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview (00:22) Intro (01:00) Guest introduction: John Glasgow (01:51) Journey of Campfire (05:05) Challenges and innovations in accounting software (06:47) Shift to modern GL and AI integration (11:21) Sponsors: Notion | Puzzle (13:29) Real-world impact and case studies (19:11) Fundraising and future plans (20:01) Partnering with John Lockett and Excel (21:06) AI conference and bigger investments (21:48) Challenges of a seed-backed business (22:50) Advice for founders in big industries (23:36) Product velocity and customer trust (25:51) Future plans and milestones (29:24) Origin of Campfire (30:53) Message to finance leaders and founders (34:05) Future of finance and AI (36:13) Wrap