Leadership changes in local schools, rising energy costs and a strange insurance case are all part of this week’s Fridays with Larry podcast.

In the May 1 episode, I discuss the appointment of Dr. Matt Kegley as the new superintendent of Hamilton Southeastern Schools. Kegley was selected from within the district after a 20-year career in Fishers schools, stepping into the role following a recent and somewhat unexpected leadership change. I outline what his background may mean for the district moving forward.

My guest this week is Ben Inskeep of the Citizens Action Coalition of Indiana. He explains how electric utility rates are determined, the growing demand being placed on the system by data centers, and what those trends could mean for Hoosier consumers in the years ahead.

I also take a closer look at the recent spike in gas prices and how the cost of oil affects more than just what drivers pay at the pump. Higher energy costs can ripple through the economy, impacting everything from diesel fuel for the trucking industry to airline fares and the price of everyday products.

The podcast wraps up with a lighter story out of California, where a group of people attempted to collect insurance claims for damage supposedly caused by a bear — only to discover the culprit was a person in a bear suit.

Fridays With Larry is sponsored by Citizens State Bank.

You can listen to the May 1 edition of Fridays with Larry using the video or audio links below.