Dot to Dot - the daily 5min Alexa demo show

Two skills today; National Grid provides a real-time break-down of power supply across the UK from a range of sources, and Number 10 gives you the latest tweet from our esteemed Prime Minister's office. If you need perking up after this one then why not go back and listen to the 4ABurp episode? :)

Today we look at a few built-in Star Trek-related abilities of the A-Lady, and then follow it up with a go at the Star Trek TOS Fan Trivia skill that quizzes you on the original series (hence 'TOS') that's now 51 years young. It's podcasting Jim, but not as we know it.

Today's episode is all about mental health and includes a few reminders about earlier episodes that touch on this topic, an update on Reminders and how they can now also notify you on your phone, and lastly we look at the Depression Tracker skill which can advise on whether you may be experiencing depression. Look after yourselves out there.

Today we look at another Dr Who-related skill, topped and tailed with what is probably the best theme tune of all time...

With some slightly suspicious distances dished out in this demo, we take a look at how far a weary crow would have to wing it to get from A to B around the world. As you'll see for yourself, someone should really point these crazy corvids in the right direction before they set off...

Two food-related skills today; some (I think) groovy jokes about consumables in general, followed by some fascinating facts about everyone's favourite curved yellow fruit. BTW if you don't like bananas please do show your displeasure by recording a podcast (of around 5mins or so) on your favourite echo skill and send it to me at [email protected]

We've looked at Earplay in a previous episode in which we covered the demo and I mentioned that there was one story available; Cygnus. Now there's a second called 'Half' so let's take a quick look, or listen, to see what's what.

If you're into The Hobbit and you like comedy then you'll love this skill. Hilariously funny, it's a spoof of all things fantasy and well worth a lengthy listen. Definitely a case of one skill to rule them all.

Two completely unrelated skills today, except that they cater to the interests of both sides of the li'l old pond that separates us from our American cousins. If either advertising jingles or avoiding falling between tube train and platform are your thing then there may be something in today's episode for you. I also put out a plea for suggestions and/or contributions to either @usa2day or [email protected] - and of course for reviews on iTunes. Ta.

Two more skills from the Jeopardy stable aimed at teens and sports fans. Unfortunately, I don't qualify as the first and only as a completely inept example of the latter, so enjoy just how bad I am at both. My reputation as a total doofus is not at all in jeopardy here.