Motion to Interactive: How One Disney Grad Built a Design Studio for Tomorrow

Disney animator turned studio co-founder Aradhana Bejarano shares the career mistakes that cost years, why 80% of her work is now interactive, and how small studios need to think like content creators to thrive.

Aradhana M. Bejarano went from an early career at Disney to co-founder of TheLittleLabs, navigating everything from culture shock in Georgia to building a remote studio that's riding the interactive design wave. Aradhana joins Joey on the SOM Podcast and spills on the biggest career mistakes, why small studios need to think like content creators, and how the industry is shifting toward work that moves beyond traditional motion graphics.

⚡ What Caught Our Attention

The Career Mistake That Cost Years

‍"Not reaching out for help and mentorship was the biggest mistake in my career." Perfectionist silence = missed growth opportunities.

Be a Connector, Reap Later‍

Connect people with zero expectation of return. "It always comes back around three to four years later and turns into something awesome."

The 80% Shift‍

TheLittleLabs' work is now 80% interactive-based. Motion design is evolving, and tools like Rive are the bridge for designers who don't want to become developers.

Disney Reality Check‍

Even dream jobs have office politics and layoffs. The real value? Skills and connections, not resume clout.

Small Studios = Content Creators‍

Stop thinking service provider, start thinking direct-to-consumer. Build your own audience alongside client work.

Personal Connections > Cold Emails‍

In an oversaturated market, meeting people IRL and leveraging existing relationships beats sliding into DMs every time.