The TV personality yearns for this absence-free period in his post-career life. - What the Former Television Personality Yearns for Mostly
Freshened Take:
Ulrike von der Groeben Bares All! Ulrike von der Groeben, 68, former sports expert on RTL Aktuell, discusses her post-RTL life and her new book, "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" in an interview with spot ON News. After 35 years, she ditched retirement and instead penned a book - a mix of autobiography and expert advice on retirement. What she misses the most in her post-RTL life, her relationship with her long-time colleague Peter Kloeppel, and more, she spills in the interview.
Did the research for the book hit close to home?
Ulrike: Oh, absolutely! While writing and conversing with experts, I realized just how unprepared I'd been for retirement - brave, but a tad naive. I remain optimistic about my future happiness, but I encourage folks to broach certain topics earlier, especially financial planning. Some bits can be sorted close to retirement, but earlier is always better. Fitness and health are no exception. According to Professor Froboese, it's never too late, but the early starters gain an advantage.
Was financial planning ever a priority?
Ulrike: I'm all about security, so I'm conservative with money. My husband, on the other hand, relished the idea of buying another property when interest rates were low. I, however, was always cautious, saying we should clear our debts before venturing into new investments. Looking back, I probably should have listened to my husband more. I played the part of the cautious one, even when I should have known better.
Do I regret it today?
Ulrike: I've become stoic and learned to leave the past behind. I may regret it, but it's not enough to impact my happiness today.
What about the "practitioner" tip in the book to view retirement as a new vocation?
Ulrike: I haven't started my practitioner journey yet. The book itself postponed my retirement by half a year. Writing was no cakewalk - and I was honestly scared of it. I just wanted to relax and call the shots in my own time. But everyone urged me to do the book. With promotional trips coming up, I think I'll truly start my retirement this summer. I'm eagerly anticipating a vacation and a chance to unwind.
Did a low point greet me after my last working day and the farewell bash?
Ulrike: I haven't plunged into a real rut yet, but the busy days of RTL might still snag me. What I miss the most is the run-of-the-mill studio chaos, the daily grind, the meetings, the pressure, and the camaraderie. And most of all, I miss my colleagues. I still catch up with them, but not as often as I'd like. I pine for the constant interaction with people and am still getting used to the quiet.
Are Peter Kloeppel and I still in touch? He's also in my book.
Ulrike: Yes, we've met up several times post-farewell, even with friends and our families. We also exchanged news when he was in the US, naturally for the interview that features in the book. Peter paid a visit to Germany recently - we met because we both received the Grimme Prize.
- In her interview with spot ON News, Ulrike von der Groeben revealed that while writing her book, she realized she was unprepared for retirement and encourages others to prioritize financial planning earlier rather than later.
- Ulrike von der Groeben admitted in her interview that she regrets being overly cautious with her finances during her post-RTL life, wishing she had listened to her husband more regarding investment opportunities.
- Despite the absence of daily interactions with colleagues, Ulrike von der Groeben still misses the studio chaos, meetings, and camaraderie from her RTL days and meets with her long-time colleague, Peter Kloeppel, occasionally.
