Richie Kohler on Deep Wreck Diving, U-Boat Mysteries, and the Meaning of Artifacts | Deadfoot Diver Podcast

Richie Kohler on Deep Wreck Diving, U-Boat Mysteries, and the Meaning of Artifacts | Deadfoot Diver Podcast

Curt interviews technical diving legend Richie Kohler about his 50+ year diving career, how mentors (including his father, Atlantic wreck divers, and John Chatterton) shaped his wreck-diving approach, and how early deep wreck diving lacked formal training yet focused on risk-averse methods and physiology. Kohler discusses transitioning from open circuit to rebreathers, close calls while exploring a submarine wreck, and the emotional impact of encountering human remains, which pushed him to prioritize respect over recovery. He explains lawful artifact salvage, why artifacts act as “time machines,” and how a small plastic identification tag from the “Yoohoo” submarine became his most significant find by providing closure and leading to documentary and Titanic expeditions. He also recounts attending the 70th anniversary Andrea Doria reunion and highlights John Moyer’s preservation-focused collection and documentary work.

00:00 Podcast Welcome

00:42 Meet Richie Kohler

01:44 Origins and Mentors

04:47 Atlantic Wreck Divers

07:40 Chatterton and Rebreathers

12:37 Andrea Doria Plate Talk

14:22 Artifacts and Meaning

19:42 Mystery Sub Tag

25:23 Close Calls and Remains

30:38 Andrea Doria Reunion

34:57 Wrap Up and Thanks