Your hubby is correct about using a stain blocker sealer & then paint.

I used to use Kilz but a friend turned me on to

Zinsser High Hide Cover Stain

http://www.zinsser.com/product_detail.asp?ProductID=78

this stuff is great!

Dries ready for top coat in 2 hours. Covers everything, no bleed thru.Prime
with this & one top coat is usually enough