MITD has four hosts. And what for? So when Dave won't make it, neither can Tim Weisberg, Tim Dennis, or Shannon LeGro? Art had high standards for MITD. But it seems it is just going down the tubes.
But there's also a possibly that it might not be on the hosts side if there is a problem. For example, if something were to suddenly happen to Keith or whatever guests were scheduled, the host wouldn't matter.
I'm just speculating. You've been listening longer than I have, so you have a more defined opinion and more to compare it to. Dave definitely has a different style than Art. As it's been pointed out, he's also been leaving his house/studio and going and meeting people to spread the word. That's the big thing, especially among millennials and younger.
Interacting with the fan base is what a lot of people want. I admit, I had more fun listening when I was able to interact with Dave, Keith, Michelle and all here. It was also an easy way to interact with the guest by asking questions.
But for whatever reason, (though Dave seems way too busy) that's dwindled a lot.
But at least we still have BART!