FAQ
What exactly do you do again?
I’m a retail analyst, author and journalist. I started out in banking then became a journalist covering fashion, retail and consumer spending. I spent the past seven years interviewing CEOs, diving into the finacial statements of public retail companies, going to fashion shows and hanging out with designers until 4am to get the scoop on where the industry is going. I would occasionally get asked to style celebrities and wealthy people who didn’t have time to shop or pack for themselves, but it wasn’t something I loved to do. Now, I write my thoughts out in reports for hedge funds, investment banks and consult for stores that need some objective insight into their own businesses. I will sometimes go on TV to talk about what I am seeing or I’ll write a piece for a magazine, web site or news paper. I also wrote a book on retail and the black market called “Black Market Billions” published in 2011 by FT Press. To see some of my work click here: http://www.hithaprabhakar.com/category/articles/ Fun times.
Where are you from?
I grew up in New Mexico and my parents are from India. So I consider myself both a New Mexican and Indian. I am NOT from the following places (although I would love to visit): Guyana, Nepal, China, Dominican Republic, Trinidad, Maritius, Holland, Japan, Sri Lanka or South Africa.
How can I do what you do?
I tell people the same thing when I get asked this question and the answer is: “don’t sleep for eight years straight.” In addition to that, you should start a blog with something very specific to say , write a book, get very up to speed on social media, and learn how to edit your own videos. Don’t get distracted. Don’t self doubt. Just stay focused and work really hard.
I’m having a fashion crisis- will you come shopping with me?
Yes, but I charge by the hour. Send me an email.
Where do I send press releases?
You can send all press releases to info@hithaprabhakar.com.
Why are you not answering my emails?
Every day I get on average, 100 + emails. As much as I would like to respond to every email in real time, I simply can’t. But if you give me a couple days I promise I will get back to you!
What color of lipstick are you wearing when you are on TV?
Chanel Glossimer in Braise.
Do you take interns?
Not actively but I am happy to check out resumes. Feel free to send them to this email: resumes@hithaprabhakar.com
What’s your book about and how long did it take you to write it?
My book is about stolen and counterfeit merchandise and how the sale of those black market items fund terrorists. I spent a year following the money trail of these items and a year writing the book. Through extensive research and interviews I found that a lot of terrorist funding comes from the sale of stolen and counterfeit merchandise including: car parts, clothing, handbags, guns and over the counter as well as perscription drugs.
Where can I get a copy?
You can get the book here: Amazon.com or if you want to listen to it (I highly recommend this version) you can go here: Audible.com
Why don’t you ever smile when you are on the subway?
Because I am on the subway.