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 lea ...