Your liquid may be too hot. Anything heat over 115 degrees will kill the yeast. Also salt shouldn't be added to the yeast. I add the yeast last or dissolve it in the water before putting it in the machine. I use the lb packages of yeast bought at Sam's Club. I keep it in the freezer and it stays good for years. I use it right out of the freezer, 1 tablespoon at a time. Is the mixing paddle attached firmly? Mine was loose and didn't mix or knead the dough properly. I make double batches of dough and let the machine mix and knead it. I take it out after the first rise and shape in two loaves or rolls and let it rise in the pans.