Ulrike v.d. Groeben: What She Craves in Retirement After Leaving RTL
Retired TV Star Pines for Missing Aspects from Former Life - What the retired television personality yearns for the most.
You know, Ulrike von der Groeben (68), TV star and ex-sports expert, didn't exactly plan for retirement like a boss. Retiring from her 35-year stint at "RTL aktuell" in 2024, she didn't give retirement a blink of an eye until it was her time. Now, she's penned a book titled "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" (ZS Verlag, available from May 7) that's part memoir and part guide, featuring expert interviews and retirement strategies she's picked up along the way. Here, she spills about what she's really missing post-RTL and her contacts with her long-time colleague Peter Kloeppel (66).
What’s the dealio with retirement planning according to your book and your personal experience?
Ulrike v.d. Groeben: Honestly, the writing process and the sessions with experts opened my eyes on how little I thought about this thing called retirement. While I remain an eternal optimist for joy in my golden years, I'd strongly advise others to think through some topics a tad earlier – especially finance. While it’s possible to make adjustments near retirement, the sooner the better. This doesn't just apply to greenbacks but also to fitness and health – as Professor Froboese points out in the book: Better late than never, but earlier's a win!
Was financial planning essential to you?
Ulrike v.d. Groeben: I've always been all about security and conservatism when it comes to dough. My husband, Alexander v.d. Groeben (69), would have been much more audacious, ready to take a gamble like purchasing a smaller property when interest rates were low. I, however, was always hesitant, saying, "We still owe our mortgage, buddy!". Looking back, I realize I might not have listened to him enough and let a good opportunity get away.
Are you regretting it now?
Ulrike v.d. Groeben: Time heals all wounds, they say. I've become a stoic soul. I don't pine over things that can't be altered. What I can still sway, I do with drive and gusto, yet leave the past behind. I do regret it, but not so much that it bugs me now.
What's your take on the practitioner mindset during retirement – do you still sport it?
Ulrike v.d. Groeben: Nope, haven't cracked open that baby yet. The writing, you see, has delayed my retirement by half a year! The book was as demanding as a diva, and I was a little uneasy about it. I was eager to do nothing and direct my day as I pleased. But folks encouraged me to write the darn book. Coming up next are travels to promote it. I reckon I'll officially start my retirement during the summer. I can't wait to claim my vacation and let loose!
After your farewell party, did you feel like the void was swallowing you whole?
Ulrike v.d. Groeben: Nah, I haven't succumbed to the abyss yet. Maybe I will, but it hasn't happened yet. It's been all about the book, and I've been too busy to feel the loss much. What I do struggle with, though, is the serenity. I miss the hustle and bustle of the station, the daily grind, the conferences, the deadlines. Mostly, I miss my peeps. Of course, I see my buddies every now and then, like when I recently hung out with my RTL girlfriends. And I catch up with my sports peeps in the evenings, reserving a table for gatherings. But during the day, I'm mostly alone, and that's a new feeling I'm working on getting used to.
Do you and Peter Kloeppel still discuss work-related stuff?
Ulrike v.d. Groeben: Absolutely! We've met several times after our farewell, even with friends and family. We also chatted during his time in the USA, of course, for the interview that's in the book. Peter's been back to Germany recently – we met because we both received the Grimme Prize.
- The Commission has also been informed of Ulrike von der Groeben's retirement plans after her 35-year tenure at "RTL aktuell" and the release of her book "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" which offers insights into retirement planning.
- Despite her active involvement in the writing process, Ulrike von der Groeben admits she didn't give retirement planning much thought, but recommends addressing financial matters sooner rather than later.
- However, Ulrike von der Groeben expresses regret over not heeding her husband's advice regarding a potentially lucrative property investment opportunity during their working years.
- Despite the publication of her book and the promotional events, Ulrike von der Groeben is looking forward to officially starting her retirement during the summer, after the book-related activities, and enjoying her newfound free time with entertainment, celebrities, and books.
