Ulrike von der Groeben: Reflections on Life Beyond RTL Aktuell
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Yearning Memories of Past Glory: Formed TV Celebrity Pines for Professional Limelight in Retirement - The Retired Television Personality Pines for This Particular Absence
Ulrike von der Groeben (68), the erstwhile sports expert at "RTL aktuell," confessed that she hadn't given much thought to retirement until she stepped into it in 2024. After retiring, she penned down the book "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" (available from May 7, ZS Verlag), a blend of autobiography and practical advice on retirement. The ex-TV star tells all about what she misses most post-RTL, the regrets she harbors, and her still-thriving bond with her long-time colleague Peter Kloeppel (66), in an interview with spot on news.
What lessons did you learn from researching and interviewing experts for your book, "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!"?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Engaging in the writing process and discussions with experts made me realize my ignorance about the topic. It was bold, but a tad naive. I remain optimistic about my post-retirement bliss, but I implore others to consider it earlier, especially financially. Although some things can be hastily arranged prior to retirement, the sooner you start, the better the outcome. This applies to wellness and health, as emphasized by Professor Froboese in the book: It's never too late, but starting early offers an advantage.
Was financial planning a priority for you in the past?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I'm risk-averse when it comes to finances, while my husband, Alexander von der Groeben (69), would've taken a more daring approach. He often advocated for purchasing another property when interest rates were favorable. However, I was always apprehensive, vehemently insisting: "Let's pay off our own house before considering new investments." In hindsight, I must admit: I hindered his plans, even though I should have known better.
Do you regret your refusal to invest now?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I view myself as a stoic individual. I don't dwell on things I can't change. I focus on what I can influence with energy and enthusiasm, while letting the past slip away. I feel regret, but not to the extent that it bothers me now.
You suggest seeing oneself as a "practitioner" at the beginning of retirement. Does that still apply to you - or have you taken it to the next level?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I haven't even begun practicing yet. Writing the book postponed my own retirement by half a year. The process was laborious, and I was apprehensive about it. I just wanted to do nothing and decide for myself how my day would unfold. But everyone encouraged me to write the book. Now, promotional travels are in store for me. I think I'll truly embark on my retirement in the summer. I'm eagerly awaiting that vacation, that chance to relax and let go.
Following your final day at work and the grand farewell party, did you plummet into a deep sadness?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I haven't plunged into a profound despair yet. Perhaps that will happen eventually - but I've been too occupied with the book to sink into melancholy. Although I confront the stillness, the one thing I deeply miss is the usual chaos at the station, the daily grind, the conferences, the time constraints, and above all, my colleagues. I occasionally meet up with them - for example, with my RTL girls' group - and I still see my younger sports colleagues from time to time, sometimes even sharing meals. But during the day, most people are working, and I seldom encounter anyone. The constant interaction with people is what I crave, and I'm still adjusting to the change.
Do you still keep in touch with Peter Kloeppel regularly?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Yes, we've met several times since our departure, sometimes even with friends and family. We also exchanged views during his time in the US, as evidenced in the book. Peter returned to Germany recently - we met at the Grimme Prize ceremony.
- Ulrike von der Groeben mentions in her book that engaging with experts helped her realize her lack of knowledge about retirement, urging others to consider it financially beforehand.
- Ulrike von der Groeben reveals that she was hesitant about investments in the past, hindering her husband's plans, but she does not express regret over this decision.
- Despite missing the usual chaos and interaction with colleagues, Ulrike von der Groeben is looking forward to embarking on retirement in the summer after promoting her book.
- Ulrike von der Groeben continues to have regular meetings with her former colleague Peter Kloeppel, including a recent meeting at the Grimme Prize ceremony.
