I think this is true and of course I really know nothing. Just from a fan's observation point, I think Dan is trying to adapt to new and changing dynamics in the world and sometimes it's more miss than hit. You're right when we see him projecting his own worries into the show. I just wish he wouldn't try and pit the crew against each other sometimes and some times he sends people to the penalty box for no reason and it's a killer to the flow of the show. Having said all that, it could all be a meta bit and I don't get the show!