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The BW Season was entirely filler: a dream Ash went into shortly after sustaining a loss at the hands of Tobias. This dream symbolizes a mental hurdle Ash has to overcome if he is ever to become a trainer confident enough to become Pokemon Master.
Iris
>'You're such a kid.'
>Is there for no reason
>Her goals are never met
Just as her presence is pointless, Ash's self doubt is unfounded. Deep down he knows he has the skills needed to become a Master, but the thought of never reaching his goal, especially after the unfairness of Tobias, lingers on, manifested in Iris and her constant reminder that he is just a kid: a rookie who will never advance. If he succumbs to his self doubt, he will follow the path to nowhere, achieving nothing, as epitomized by Iris.
The only person Iris is intimidated by is Georgia because she symbolizes the confidence that Ash once had. The two constantly meet because this is one of the main issue's Ash needs to address.
Dent:
>Gym Leader
>Knowledgeable about skills and abilities
>Is logical
No explanation is really needed. Just as Georgia represents Ash's confidence, Dent represents Ash's growth and abilities as a trainer. Notice how Dent and Iris constantly clash; this is the core of Ash's inner battle, taken form in his two traveling companions. As this is the core of Ash's mental challenge, they are always around him, constantly reminding him of the strengths and/or weaknesses he has within.
Team Rocket:
>Personality 180
Although more subtle, the change of personality in Team Rocket represents Ash's inability to decide what type of person he needs to be in order to become Pokemon Master. Up to this point, he has been losing under the guise of a fun loving personality. Would becoming a more stern trainer make him more worthy of the title of Champion? As his dream goes on, he finds the answer by reminiscing on his past travels, companions and rivalries, ultimately, finding a middle ground.
Epiphany realized, Ash travels to Kalos.
