Ulrike von der Groeben: Bravely Naive About Retirement, but Learning as She Goes
Celebrity reminisces about his most cherished aspect of his career post-retirement. - The retired TV personality yearns for this particular aspect the most.
Ulrike von der Groeben (68), a former 35-year sports expert on "RTL aktuell", didn't give retirement much thought until she stepped away in 2024. She penned a book titled "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" (ZS Verlag, available from May 7) - a unique blend of autobiography, advice, expert interviews, and tips for a fulfilling retirement. In an exclusive interview with spot on news, Ulrike opens up about her post-RTL life, her husband Alexander, and her connection with Peter Kloeppel.
Did personal insights emerge from your research for "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!"?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Absolutely. The writing and conversations with experts revealed how much I'd underestimated retirement. It demonstrates bravery but, arguably, a touch of naivety. Despite remaining optimistic, I'd advise others to tackle certain topics earlier, primarily finances. Some things can still be sorted out at the last minute, but the sooner you start, the better. Professor Froboese recommends the same in the book: It's never too late, but starting earlier offers an advantage.
Was financial planning a priority for you in the past?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I'm a committed, cautious saver when it comes to money. In contrast, my husband, Alexander (69), would have been more audacious. He would have preferred investing in another property when interest rates were favorable. I, however, was always wary, insisting we pay off our own home before considering something new. In hindsight, I didn't heed my husband's advice enough and was reluctant to take on debt for such ventures. I was the brake, even when I should have known better.
Do you have regrets about this?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I've grown to be a stoic individual. I don't dwell on impossible changes. What I can still impact, I face with determination and enthusiasm but leave the past behind. I regret it, but not enough to dwell on it today.
Your book's tip for retirees is to view oneself as a "practitioner." Is that still applicable to you, or have you progressed further?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Not quite. Writing the book postponed my retirement by six months! The process was challenging - I was hesitant at first, preferring to do nothing and set my own schedule. My close ones encouraged me to write the book. As promotions commence, I believe I'll embark on retirement this summer. I look forward to taking a well-deserved vacation and indulging in leisure activities.
Did you feel a void after your final day at work, following the big farewell celebration?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Luckily, I haven't sunk into a deep hole just yet. Time will tell if depression sets in later. What I battle with, though, is the silence. I miss the constant hustle of the station, the daily grind, meetings, deadlines, and my colleagues. Most importantly, I miss the camaraderie of my team. Although I still see them occasionally - for example, I recently reunited with my old RTL girlfriends - the day-to-day interactions are what I long for, and I'm still getting accustomed to the quiet.
Did you consult Peter Kloeppel for your book?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Yes, we've stayed in touch since our departure, even socializing with friends and family. We also discussed various topics during his time in the USA, including the interview featured in the book. Peter recently returned to Germany - we reconnected because we both received the Grimme Prize.
After writing her book, Ulrike von der Groeben realized that she had underestimated retirement, showcasing bravery but naivety. She advised others to start planning finances earlier, as Professor Froboese suggested in her book. Despite being a cautious saver, Ulrike sometimes regretted not following her husband's advice about investing.
Ulrike's book encourages retirees to view themselves as "practitioners," but the writing process delayed her own retirement by six months. With promotions coming up, she plans to retire this summer and enjoy a well-deserved vacation. However, she misses the daily interactions and camaraderie of her work life at RTL.
Ulrike did consult Peter Kloeppel for her book, as they stayed in touch after leaving their positions at RTL. They reminisced about their time apart, including an interview Peter was featured in within the book's pages. After returning to Germany, they reconnected, as they both received the Grimme Prize.
