You have to be very careful how you use a crate, they can be a very helpful tool but should never be used as punishment. It does take time to train a puppy its not unlike having a baby in the house (I should know I have 4 children and three dogs!) How big is his crate? I always use a good size one that has enough space for bed,bowls and pee paper.Maybe you could start by putting Obi in the crate for short periods of time at the same times every day so he begins to expect it and knows it won't be long. Maybe give him a fave toy/chew or treat when you put him in so he looks forward to it.Also feed him his meals in there if it is big enough or get him a pen instead of a crate. As for the barking I use the term "HUSHHH!" emphisize the "SHHH" none of my dogs are yappers not even my Yorkie Mika. It took a few weeks but she soon understood, when she yapped I used "HUSHHH" and then she would be ignored until she stopped, once she was distracted I told her she was a good girl and gave her a fuss!. Now she barely barks and if she does I only need to look at her and she stops instantly and sits at my feet wagging her tail! I really hope you and hubby can hang on in there, I know it must be hard for you getting agro from him, but remind him that Obi is your baby and he will grow up and settle down much quicker than a skinkid
Good luck