Are you using the freshest yeast? Maybe it needs a little boost during the first fermentation. Try adding a teaspoon of sugar to the yeast/warm water solution. Don't proceed any further until you see that the yeast is bubbly and expanded.
I don't use packaged yeast anymore because it is not always that fresh and because I'm cheap. I made my own starter and it has been living happily in my fridge for about 6 years now. I KNOW it's fresh. I use it and refeed it about once a week. I've found that making bread over a two day process works for me. Don't rush it. Allow the yeast to multiply in the sponge and dough before you move on to the next step.
~ C
~ C