Imagine turning 18 and gaining access to $25,000 that’s been sitting in trust since childhood. What would you do with it? keep it safe in cash, invest it for the long term, or a mix of both?

In this Start Here episode of SugarMamma’s Fireplay, I respond to a thoughtful mum whose daughter is about to receive compensation money from a childhood accident. The money has grown only modestly with inflation over the last 15 years (to around $31,000 today), and her mother wants to guide her wisely.

This episode is about more than dollars, it’s about education, empowerment, and helping a young woman build confidence with money.

Here’s what we cover:

• 💰 Cash for short-term goals - why money needed in the next few years (car, study, housing) should stay in cash for safety.

• 📈 Investing for the long term - how shares, LICs, and ETFs can grow over decades, and the importance of risk profiling.

• 🔀 Splitting the difference - why she doesn’t have to choose all or nothing, and how a “buckets” approach can provide both security and growth.

• 📚 Learning first - why reading personal finance books and listening to podcasts helps young people take ownership of their money decisions.

• 👩‍🎓 Superannuation - why setting this up early with the right investment option creates a powerful head start.

• ⚡ Advanced strategies (later in life) - an introduction to gearing (borrowing to invest), why it’s higher risk, and why it should only be considered in the future with proper advice.

• ✨ The bigger picture - how this money is not just a gift, but an opportunity to become a strong, independent, and financially confident woman.

The key takeaway? There’s no single “right” answer -  but with education, patience, and empowerment, this gift can become the foundation of lifelong financial freedom.

💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Reach out to me anytime on Instagram @SugarMammaTV so we can keep this important conversation alive.

📚 My Books

If you’re ready to deepen your financial knowledge, check out my books:

• Best Seller:The $1000 Project
• **Mindful Money](https://amzn.to/3RV0poc)
• Motivated Money by Peter Thornhill(a huge inspiration for me): Read it here

(These are Amazon affiliate links to my own books.)

💡 Work With Me

Want more support on your financial journey? Here’s how we can work together:

1. The SugarMamma Budget & Cashflow Academy
   Sick of living paycheque to paycheque or feeling overwhelmed by your money?
   This course includes aone-on-one appointment with me so I can personally help you.
   👉 Enrol here
2. Money Mindset & Manifestation Coaching
   Join my program for ongoing support, clarity, and motivation. You’ll get direct access to me and a community of like-minded people ready to make powerful change.
   👉Join here

🌟 Stay Connected & Inspired

• Instagram:@SugarMammaTV — money, budgeting, cashflow & motivation
• Instagram:@CannaCampbellofficial — lifestyle, capsule wardrobe fashion, motherhood
• TikTok:@SugarMammaTV
• YouTube:SugarMammaTV — over 500 bite-sized videos with more than 12 million views!
• Website:SugarMammaTV.com
• Don’t forget my other podcast:How Do They Afford That? 👉 Listen here

⚖️ General Advice Warning

While we discuss financial topics, everything shared here is general information only — never personal, product, or investment advice. Always:

• Do your own research.
• Weigh up the pros, cons, fees, caps, taxes, and risks.
• Seek professional advice before making financial decisions.

📜 Financial Planning License Details

The information in this podcast does not take into account your personal circumstances, goals, or needs. Always read relevant Product Disclosure Statements before acquiring any financial product, and seek independent financial advice where appropriate.

Canna Campbell is an Authorised Representative and Financial Adviser of Links Licensee Services Pty Ltd (AFSL No. 700012 | ABN 97 678 975 589).

 

---

 trust fund advice, 18th birthday money, $25,000 compensation, investing for young adults, should I invest or save, beginner investing Australia, LICs and ETFs explained, superannuation for young people, gearing explained, SugarMamma Fireplay, Canna Campbell podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.