LOL....sounds like you should give it to your MIL. No...just kidding!! I think it will be fine in whatever soil you put it in as long as you don't keep it wet all the time and NEVER water it from the top so that water goes into the "birdsnest" or cup of the rosette in the middle. I have had one for a long time in a little planter above the sink and used to keep it wet all the time before I knew better.It would loose an occational leaf, but is still alive. I just have it in regular potting soil. I am new at this too, but from what I gather, I think watering them in the middle like a bromiliad is what kills them.
Marcy

Cactus soil would be great.

I can't help you on amounts. I water mine about every two weeks until water starts appearing in the tray/saucer/underpot. When I see the water, I stop, and don't water it again for another two or three weeks.

It takes a real effort to change over to the 'other side' of watering. I am a committed underwaterer, that is why Sansevierias work so well for me. Anything that takes a lot of water, or humidity? Well, as soon as it enters my door, it's death warrent is issued. I'm working on it. I do have a fern (Leatherleaf) sitting on the front porch, and I did take it through the house. We will see if any paper got signed...

Black Gold cactus soil. I add perlite to it to help with drainage.

A high draining soil is needed. Depending on your light conditions, a cactus soil may not be enough. Many here use cactus soil and perlite, 50/50. Others don't use soil at all using turface, pumice and fine bark. It depends on what works for you in your light conditions. Fast draining is the key and dry is the key.