Handyman Hal was created in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was serving as a Youth Pastor at The Refuge in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, and I needed a fun way to stay connected with kids while we were all at home. Since I also worked in construction and as a handyman, the idea for Handyman Hal was born!
What started as Sunday School videos quickly grew into real-life adventures that help kids learn about everyday places, vehicles, tools, animals, and more. Thanks to the amazing support of families like yours, Handyman Hal has continued to grow and reach children all over the world.
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Thank you for being part of this AWESOME adventure!
Hey my friends it's me Handyman Hal!
Shawn Goins is the student and children’s pastor at the Refuge in Murrells Inlet. He has been in the student ministry field for over 10 years. He holds a BS degree from Emmanuel College and an MBA in organizational and leadership development from Charleston Southern. He is passionate about the development of our youth leaders. There is no extreme that he will not go to help children learn and grow; even if it means having the alter ego of Handyman Hal!
Chris Kirby is an Irish songwriter, producer, and performer best known to families around the world as “Cool Chris,” the musical sidekick on Handyman Hal. With more than 20 years of experience in recording studios and on stages across the globe, Chris brings a wealth of talent in songwriting, music production, and live entertainment to every project he takes on.
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As the writer and producer behind many of Handyman Hal’s signature songs, Chris helps create the fun, energetic sound that has become a favorite of kids and parents alike. He also appears on screen alongside Handyman Hal, bringing music, humor, and excitement to every adventure.
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Beyond the show, Chris is the creator and writer of the popular children’s podcast, Awesome Adventures with Handyman Hal, expanding the Handyman Hal universe through imaginative stories, catchy songs, and educational fun.
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Growing up in the mountains of Hendersonville, North Carolina, creativity and adventure were part of everyday life. From helping my dad with car projects, boating, and building, to making costumes, crafts, paintings, and imaginative creations with my mom and grandmother, I learned early on that ordinary moments can become something truly magical.
After studying Animal Behavior at Coastal Carolina University, I continued following my passion for animals, storytelling, nature, and creativity. I love diving, horseback riding, exploring the outdoors, poetry, and finding wonder in the everyday moments around us.
For more than 10 years, I’ve had the joy of portraying a wide variety of characters and helping create unforgettable memories for children and families. While I’ve worn crowns, sparkling gowns and maybe even a mermaid tail, playing Awesome Alex has become my favorite role yet.
Being able to simply be myself while creating uplifting, wholesome content for families around the world is truly a dream come true. Through every adventure, I hope to inspire others to dream big, stay curious, embrace creativity, and always lead with kindness.