Barry West, of Pittsburg, the disk jockey better known as The Love Doctor, has found a new radio station to call home. The DJ that once worked for such Joplin stations as Big Dog 97.9 and KOCD, has now moved to Pittsburg’s modern rock station Real Rock 101.7.

West supports interactive radio where listeners are able to give input and even dictate the topics discussed.

“I care about the people I talk to and I want to get people involved,” West said.

Real Rock 101.7 allows West to interact with the 18-34-year-old age group that he thinks can make the most difference in the world.

“I really like helping to form the young minds,” he said. “It’s great when you’re responsible for pushing the right button that opens up someone’s mind and really makes them think.”

During his daily five-hour show, West takes more than 100 calls responding to topics ranging from silly to serious.

“You have to win people’s respect before they’re going to listen to you,” he said.

The DJ adopted the on air title The Love Doctor after a colleague remarked that West was giving love to his listeners.

“I care, and they can tell. I have no alterior motives,” West said. “If I can just put a smile on someone’s face on the way home, I’ve done my job.”

One listener called and said West’s show was the first time he had laughed since his wife died three months previously.

Area students agree West has found a place in niche radio.

“He’s eccentric, off the wall and witty,” said Caleb Head, freshman undecided major.