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- Handyman Hal began as a fun character during the 2020 pandemic to keep kids engaged with learning.
- Shawn Goins, a youth pastor, turned Handyman Hal into a viral YouTube sensation, with 836,000+ subscribers.
- Handyman Hal’s mission is to inspire kids through hands-on DIY lessons and positive messages about their potential.
[Cover picture by Handyman Hal Facebook]
10 Surprising Facts About YouTube Star Handyman Hal
When the world went into lockdown in 2020, Shawn Goins—better known as Handyman Hal—found a creative way to connect with kids, and he hasn’t looked back since. What started as a fun character to teach Sunday school lessons during the pandemic has transformed into a YouTube sensation. Handyman Hal’s infectious energy, love for learning, and hands-on DIY projects have captured the hearts of kids (and their families) worldwide. With over 836,000 subscribers and viral videos like his car wash episode, Hal teaches kids about the world around them in entertaining and engaging ways. From fixing things to learning about trucks and construction vehicles, Handyman Hal is all about exploring and understanding everyday life. But behind the hard hat and tools is Shawn Goins, a youth pastor whose mission is to inspire curiosity and confidence in kids everywhere.
1. The Idea Was Born During the Pandemic
Handyman Hal came to life during the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020. As a youth pastor at The Refuge Church in Murrells Inlet, SC, Shawn Goins needed a creative way to stay connected with his children’s ministry. Combining his skills as a part-time construction worker and handyman, Shawn created Handyman Hal to teach kids through fun, engaging videos.
2. He Started Out Making Sunday School Videos
Originally, Handyman Hal was created to teach Sunday School lessons. Shawn Goins used his alter ego to keep kids entertained and learning while stuck at home during lockdown. The character was so well-received by the kids at church that Goins decided to take Handyman Hal to the next level.
3. The Car Wash Episode Went Viral
One of the most popular episodes on Handyman Hal’s YouTube channel is a behind-the-scenes look at a car wash. It was released in January 2021 and quickly went viral, racking up over 13 million views! This video helped Handyman Hal become a full-blown YouTube star, and the channel took off from there.
4. He's a Youth Pastor by Day
When he’s not Handyman Hal, Shawn Goins serves as the youth and children’s pastor at The Refuge Church. With more than 9 years of experience in youth ministry, Goins is passionate about helping kids learn and grow—whether it's through teaching spiritual lessons or how to build things with their hands.
5. Handyman Hal's Educational Mission
Handyman Hal’s videos aren’t just about fixing and building things—they’re about learning through exploration. Goins and his team want kids to discover everyday places and activities, all while encouraging curiosity and a love of learning. The content is always family-friendly, aiming to entertain while providing real educational value.
6. He's Got Over 836,000 YouTube Subscribers
Since launching his channel, Handyman Hal has gained over 836,000 subscribers across five different YouTube channels. His main channel, “Handyman Hal - Educational Kids Show,” features a wide variety of adventures, from visiting fire stations to exploring farms, and has made a huge impact with young audiences.
7. Handyman Hal Is Now a Full-Time Job
What started as a way to teach kids during lockdown has turned into a full-time career for Shawn Goins. Handyman Hal has become Goins’ main job, and he now spends his days creating, filming, and producing content for his channels, which entertain and educate thousands of young fans around the world.
8. He's Touring with Ridemakerz and Big Air
Handyman Hal isn’t just staying on YouTube—he’s hitting the road! Shawn has been touring with Ridemakerz, a company that lets kids build their own custom radio-controlled cars. He’s also set to tour with Big Air, a trampoline park, next year. These meet-and-greet events give young fans the chance to interact with one of their favorite YouTube stars.
9. Handyman Hal's Family Helps Out
Shawn’s wife, Heather Goins, sometimes makes appearances in Handyman Hal’s videos, and they both share a passion for creating family-friendly content. Shawn and Heather, along with their children, emphasize the importance of learning, teamwork, and having fun while doing it.
10. He's a Big Believer in "You Are Awesome"
At the heart of Handyman Hal’s message is the idea that every kid is special and has a purpose. Goins uses the slogan, “You are awesome, the way God created you,” in his videos, encouraging kids to feel confident in who they are. This positive message has resonated with families everywhere, making Handyman Hal not just an educational figure but an inspirational one too.
Handyman Hal has come a long way from his humble beginnings as a church project during the pandemic. Now, Shawn Goins has taken his beloved character across YouTube, live events, and family screens, inspiring kids to explore the world around them through learning and fun. But beyond the DIY projects, Hal’s message is one of empowerment. His slogan, “You are awesome, the way God created you,” is a constant reminder to kids that they are special and capable. Whether he’s teaching them how to build, fix, or just appreciate the little things in life, Handyman Hal leaves a lasting impact on young audiences everywhere. It’s clear that Hal’s journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see where Shawn Goins takes his growing fan base next!
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