3/17/26 - Iran just needs to outlast US; Rental cap bans in Carmel; Guest Bill Herrick discusses oil and gas prices

On today’s episode of The Rob Kendall Show, Rob covers several major issues impacting Indiana, from the rapid expansion of data centers to rising energy costs and housing policy debates, along with a deep dive into how global conflict is now directly affecting Hoosiers. The show opens with a discussion about the growing push for data centers across Indiana and what that means for local communities. Rob breaks down a column analyzing the similarities between today’s data center boom and the expansion of big-box retail years ago, raising questions about tax incentives, land use, and long-term impact. While data centers play an important role in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure, Rob questions whether communities are giving away too much in tax breaks while getting very little in return—especially when these facilities create minimal long-term jobs and place increasing strain on electricity and water resources. The conversation then shifts to the global stage and how the conflict with Iran is already hitting home in Indiana. Rob explains how rising oil prices and supply chain disruptions are driving up costs for farmers, particularly fertilizer, at a critical time heading into planting season. He walks through the broader strategy behind the conflict, the risks tied to the Strait of Hormuz, and why many Americans are beginning to feel the economic consequences in real time. Joining the show is Bill Herrick of Midwest Energy Partners, who provides insight into how the Iran conflict is impacting oil and gas prices and what that could mean moving forward. The discussion focuses on rising fuel costs, market instability, and how global energy disruptions translate into higher everyday expenses for consumers and businesses alike. Finally, Rob examines a new policy debate in Indiana involving rental caps in communities like Fishers and Carmel. After local governments attempted to limit the number of investor-owned rental properties in neighborhoods, the state stepped in and banned those restrictions. Rob discusses how large corporations have increasingly bought up single-family homes, driving up housing prices and changing the character of neighborhoods, while also tying the issue back to property taxes and how long-term homeowners are often penalized as values rise. From data centers and energy policy to housing and global conflict, this episode connects national decisions to their real-world impact on Indiana residents and their daily lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices