Television personality's longing for the thrill of working life in his post-career phase - The Ex-Television Personality Pines for This Particular Absence
Ulrike von der Groeben: Not really. I was actually looking forward to the freedom and the new opportunities. But I also knew that it would take some time to find my new rhythm and routine. I've been keeping busy with the book and other projects, so I haven't had much time to feel lost or aimless. I think it's important to stay active and engaged, even in retirement. But I also know that it's okay to take some time for myself and just relax. It's all about finding the right balance.
Ulrike von der Groeben: No, I haven't fallen into a real hole yet. Maybe that will happen someday - but so far, I've just been too busy with the book. What I do have to deal with, though, is the quietness. What I miss is the typical bustle in the studio, the daily operations, the conferences, the time pressure, the hustle and bustle. And most of all, I miss my colleagues. Of course, I still meet them occasionally - for example, I just recently met up with my old RTL girls' group. I also see my younger sports colleagues from time to time, we even have a regular meet-up. But that's in the evenings, during the day most of them are working and I hardly meet anyone. This constant interaction with people is what I miss, and I'm still getting used to it.
Do you still keep in touch with Peter Kloeppel? He's also featured in your book.
Ulrike von der Groeben: Yes, we've seen each other quite a few times since our farewell, even with friends and our families. We also kept in touch while he was in the US, including for the interview that's included in the book. Peter was recently back in Germany again - we met up because we both received the Grimme Prize.
Insights:Ulrike von der Groeben and Peter Kloeppel, former colleagues at RTL Aktuell, have remained friends since their departure from the news show. They have met on various occasions and also collaborated on her book. However, the specific details about Ulrike von der Groeben's book "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" or her current relationship with Peter Kloeppel are not readily available in recent search results. It may be helpful to check more recent sources or interviews directly involving the two former colleagues for more in-depth information.
Ulrike von der Groeben: Indeed, my book "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" does feature Peter Kloeppel, sharing memories from our time at RTL Aktuell. Interestingly, we've managed to stay in touch and even met recently at a prestigious event where we both received the Grimme Prize. Our friendship seems to have endured the transition from our roles as colleagues to separate careers.