Ulrike von der Groeben Speaks Out: On Retirement and What She Realized Too Late
The retired TV celeb yearns for the thing that eludes him the most. - The retired television personality yearns for this particular aspect the most.
Ulrike von der Groeben (68), former sports expert at "RTL aktuell," didn't ponder retirement much prior to 2024. After her departure from RTL, she published the book "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" (ZS Verlag, due out May 7) - a blend of autobiography, advice, expert interviews, and tips about the golden years. In an exclusive chat with spot on news, Ulrike confesses what she yearns for most after her RTL exit, why she kept her husband, Alexander von der Groeben (69), from jumping headfirst into retirement, and how her relationship with Peter Kloeppel (66) evolved.
Looking Back, Have You Learned Something from Your Research for "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!"?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Absolutely. chiefly because I hadn't given it much thought before. Although I was brave, I admit, I was a bit green around the gills. I remain optimistic, assuming I’ll be as content as I envision. However, I urge others to tackle money matters and health concerns earlier on, especially the finances. While some aspects can still be addressed close to retirement, the earlier one ventures, the better. This also applies to fitness and wellness – as Professor Froboese emphasizes: "It's never too late, but those who start earlier have a leg up."
Did Financial Planning Play a Role in Your Life in the Past?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I'm quite the saver and tend to be fiscally prudent. My husband, however, was more adventurous and would have nabbed another property while interest rates were low. I, on the other hand, toyed with caution, stating, "We should pay off our home before venturing elsewhere." In hindsight, I must admit: I should've listened to my better half more often and been more willing to dip into debt when the time was right. I was the one embracing caution, even though I should have known better.
Do You Regret This Decision Now?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I've developed into a stoic person. I don't dwell on regrets that can't be rectified. I focus on things I can still influence with energy and passion while moving forward. I would label it as a missed opportunity, but it's not an issue that dwells heavily within me today.
You Mention a Phrase called "Practitioner" in the Book. Does This Still Ring True for You as You Begin Retirement - or Have You Beyond That Stage?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Not quite yet, actually. My commitment to the book postponed my retirement by six months. I hesitated when I first learned of the project, as I wanted to claim my free time and set my own schedule. Yet everyone coaxed me into writing it. And now, travel plans for promotional purposes are on the horizon. I think I'll finally begin my retirement in the summer. There's a vacation waiting, and I can't wait to slow down and unwind.
Following Your Last Day at RTL Aktuell and the Big Goodbye Party, Did You Feel a Sense of Loss or Emptiness?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Not yet, but I might watch out for such moments in the future. For now, I've been sidetracked with the book and haven't really shown my feelings. However, what I do miss is the hustle and bustle of the studio, the daily operations, the conferences, the stress of deadlines, and most of all, my colleagues. I still catch up with my former RTL coworkers occasionally, but that usually happens after hours. During the day, I don't see a lot of familiar faces. Interacting with people on a daily basis was what I adore, and it's still an adjustment.
Is Peter Kloeppel Still a Regular Contact of Yours?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Yes, we've spent time with each other and our families several times after parting ways. We even caught up during his time in the U.S. – our exchange for the book was particularly memorable. Recently, we ran into each other again at the 2025 Grimme Prize ceremonies.
- Ulrike von der Groeben: Absolutely, I've learned something from my research for "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!". I was rather naive about the challenges of retirement, and I advice others to consider financial and health matters early on.
- Ulrike von der Groeben: In the past, I was quite prudent with my finances, but I admit I should have been more open to taking calculated risks, like my husband suggested.
- Ulrike von der Groeben: I don't dwell on regrets that can't be undone. I view it as a missed opportunity, but I'm moving forward with enthusiasm and focus on the things I can still impact.
- Ulrike von der Groeben: Although I've delayed my retirement slightly due to the book project, I will finally begin my retirement in the summer and am looking forward to travel and relaxation. However, I still miss the daily interactions with my colleagues from RTL.
