Proxy with Yowei Shaw: Episode Summary

Title: Is it Time to Break Up the Band?
Release Date: June 3, 2025
Host: Yowei Shaw
Guests: Evan Bernard & Chris Baglivo of The Super Weeks, Ryan Dusick (Former Drummer of Maroon 5)

Introduction: The Struggles of The Super Weeks

In this compelling episode of Proxy, Yowei Shaw delves into the intricate dynamics of a band grappling with unresolved tensions and the inability to complete their much-anticipated record. The Super Weeks, led by friends Evan Bernard and Chris Baglivo, find themselves at a crossroads, unable to reconcile personal grief with their professional aspirations.

Background: The Rise and Tragedy of The Super Weeks

The Super Weeks' journey began with earnest DIY tours and basement shows, capturing the quintessential spirit of a burgeoning rock band. Their big break came in 2015 when they secured a major booking agent, leading to performances opening for notable bands like Brand New and Taking Back Sunday. However, their ascent was tragically halted in 2016 when Evan's younger brother, Corey Bernard, the band's bassist, died unexpectedly from cardiomyopathy at the age of 22.

Evan Bernard shares, “I didn’t really know what to do with myself. I didn’t have any real desire to do anything. You know, I’m like, okay, my little brother died. Like, where do we go from here? It just felt like a massive void.” (07:16)

Corey's death left a profound impact on the band. Without their bassist, the dynamics shifted, leading to diminished success and increasing friction between the remaining members, Evan and Chris.

Current Conflict: Leadership and Communication Breakdown

Years after Corey's passing, The Super Weeks struggled to regain their former momentum. Chris expressed frustration over Evan's reluctance to push the band forward, highlighting issues related to leadership and communication.

Evan Bernard admits, “I’m not rushing to finish this record. […] I guess I’m kind of burned out from being the leader.” (09:12)

The underlying problem stemmed from Evan feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities that Corey once shouldered and Chris grappling with ADHD, which affected his ability to contribute consistently to the band's organizational tasks.

Mikey Tajan, the drummer, adds, “I sort of reciprocate that as much. […] It is silly that it’s kind of dawning on me right now that I am not really giving you the reciprocity that you need...” (24:30)

Bringing in the Proxy: Ryan Dusick's Insight

To mediate the escalating tension, Yowei Shaw introduces Ryan Dusick, the former drummer of Maroon 5, who brings his own experiences of band dynamics and personal struggles to the conversation.

Ryan Dusick recounts his departure from Maroon 5 due to a chronic nerve injury and the subsequent personal challenges he faced, including anxiety and depression. His journey to recovery and transition into therapy provided him with a unique perspective on managing band relationships and personal growth.

Deep Dive: Addressing Grief and Leadership

The heart of the episode lies in the candid discussions between Evan, Chris, and Ryan about grief, leadership, and effective communication within a band.

Chris Baglivo reflects on grief, stating, “One day I was angry at the band. Another day I was angry at God or the universe. […] What’s one emotion that was really driving the pain, it was this feeling of my life was supposed to be something, and it’s not going to be that.” (19:31)

Ryan emphasizes the importance of system over individuals in conflicts, suggesting that clear delineation of roles and expectations can prevent resentment. He shares insights from his time in Maroon 5, highlighting how differing talents and personalities can either complement or challenge band cohesion.

Breakthrough: Rebuilding Communication and Collaboration

After an intensive proxy conversation, Evan and Chris experience a pivotal breakthrough. They acknowledge Evan’s burnout from leadership and Chris’s struggles with organizational tasks due to ADHD. Together, they establish a structured approach to delegate responsibilities and improve communication.

Evan Bernard confesses, “I’ll just be blunt real quick. […] I could use the push. That’s really, really it.” (24:58)

With Ryan’s guidance, they develop a spreadsheet to track their progress and set concrete deadlines, leading to renewed collaboration and the nearing completion of their record.

Mikey Tajan notes, “It was revelatory, and it was that easy. And then once you get started, the momentum just kind of carries you.” (44:02)

Conclusion: A Harmonious Future for The Super Weeks

The episode culminates with The Super Weeks successfully overcoming their internal conflicts, revitalizing their creative process, and nearing the completion of their album. Evan and Chris’s relationship strengthens as they learn to support each other’s strengths and manage their weaknesses, ensuring the band’s future remains bright.

Evan Bernard celebrates their progress, “We did have a moment… and we did. And in fact, we’ve done quite a few more. And the record is very close to being done.” (43:24)

Mikey Tajan adds, “It is extremely valid. […] It was revelatory, and it was that easy.” (44:02)

Key Insights and Takeaways

• Grief Impacts Professional Relationships: Corey’s untimely death deeply affected The Super Weeks, highlighting how personal loss can derail professional collaborations.

• Leadership Burnout: Evan’s exhaustion from carrying the leadership role underscores the importance of shared responsibilities to prevent burnout.

• ADHD and Communication: Chris’s ADHD played a significant role in the band’s communication breakdown, emphasizing the need for understanding and accommodating mental health challenges within group settings.

• Effective Mediation: Bringing in an external mediator like Ryan can provide fresh perspectives and strategies to resolve deep-seated conflicts.

• Structured Collaboration: Implementing tools such as spreadsheets and setting clear deadlines can enhance accountability and streamline collaborative efforts.

Notable Quotes

• Evan Bernard: “I’m not rushing to finish this record.” (09:12)
• Ryan Dusick: “It’s the system that’s the problem. […] You may be operating from the standpoint of, I’m expecting you to become like me.” (19:32)
• Chris Baglivo: “Expecting him to change is setting myself up for disappointment.” (31:06)
• Mikey Tajan: “I am often over promising because I feel like I need to relieve you of the wall to wall responsibility.” (34:46)

Final Thoughts

This episode of Proxy masterfully captures the emotional and logistical challenges within a band, illustrating how personal struggles intertwine with professional dynamics. Through open dialogue and strategic mediation, The Super Weeks exemplify the resilience needed to overcome internal conflicts and continue creating meaningful music together.

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