Viral Bradford trucker’s roadmap to success shared in new book

“I’m living proof that where you start in life doesn’t determine where you can go.”

That’s the message from Adam McTasney, a 36-year-old lorry driver from Bradford, who became a social media sensation with an Instagram following of more than 500,00 by documenting his travels in his truck.

McTasney grew up on a rough council estate in Bradford and struggled in school, leaving with no GCSEs. He joined the army where he got his trucking license. In 2004, McTasney started working as an international truck driver, traversing all over Europe.

He left the army, rented out his house and started documenting his trucking adventures during the pandemic, exploring new cultures and landmarks all over Europe. Adam, who is father to a teenager, has now travelled to nearly every country in Western and Eastern Europe despite never having been abroad before in the first 30 years of his life.

Living on the road has allowed McTasney to save thousands of pounds by avoiding rent and utility bills. His ability to see the world for next-to-nothing attracted a social media following of hundreds of thousands of followers who follow his every move with envy.

Now, Adam aims to inspire others to seize opportunities like he did. His inspiring new book, Shine from Within, chronicles his journey and provides a roadmap to living authentically.

He said: “When I was growing up on a council estate in Bradford and struggling in school with no GCSEs, I never dreamed I’d one day have over 500,000 followers on social media and publish a book. I was just a lad trying to figure things out. But joining the army gave me purpose, and getting my trucking license opened up a world of possibilities.

“Driving across Europe showed me new cultures and foods I’d never experienced before. I started sharing my adventures online, not expecting much. But soon people were commenting on how my optimistic outlook was uplifting.

“That inspired me to write ‘Shine From Within’ to hopefully motivate others. My path has been far from normal, but I’m living proof that where you start in life doesn’t determine where you can go. With some luck and positivity, you can find opportunities to grow. My book aims to inspire people to embrace kindness, tap into their inner brightness, and live authentically. I never thought I’d author a book, but if my unlikely journey can help others shine, that makes it all worthwhile.”

“Shine From Within” explores embracing kindness, cultivating inner brightness, and self-discovery. With wisdom and practical insights, it empowers readers to live with authenticity, compassion, and brightness and provides an uplifting roadmap to finding fulfilment.