About

About Sarah Miller

Hi! I'm Sarah Miller, the founder of Side Sleeper Guide. I'm a former product researcher turned sleep specialist who discovered a massive gap in honest, data-driven mattress reviews for side sleepers when I was desperately searching for solutions to my chronic hip and shoulder pain.

My Story: From Pain to Purpose

I started this site in 2023 after spending nearly $8,000 on mattresses that promised to be "perfect for side sleepers" but left me tossing and turning every night. As someone who's been a dedicated side sleeper since childhood (my mom says I refused to sleep any other way even as a baby!), I thought the pain was just something I had to live with.

The breaking point came one morning when I couldn't lift my arm above my shoulder to wash my hair. At 34 years old, I was feeling like I had the body of someone twice my age. My physical therapist asked about my mattress, and that simple question sent me down a rabbit hole that would change my life.

The Journey: From Frustration to Expertise

What I discovered shocked me. Most mattress "reviews" were just marketing copy. The reviewers hadn't actually slept on the beds for more than a night or two. Nobody was measuring pressure points, analyzing spine alignment, or tracking pain levels over time. And worst of all? Nobody was specifically focusing on the unique needs of side sleepers—who make up 74% of the population!

So I did what any slightly obsessive researcher would do: I turned my bedroom into a testing lab.

Over the past two years, I've:

• Personally tested 52 different mattresses (yes, my husband Jake thinks I'm crazy)
• Analyzed over 500 real user reviews from Reddit, forums, and verified purchases
• Consulted with 3 sleep specialists and 2 physical therapists
• Used pressure mapping technology to measure actual support levels
• Tracked my own pain levels, sleep quality, and morning stiffness for each mattress

Why This Matters

I believe that waking up pain-free shouldn't be a luxury. It shouldn't take thousands of dollars and months of trial and error to find a mattress that actually works for your body.

When I finally found mattresses that eliminated my morning pain, it was life-changing. I had energy again. I could play with my kids without wincing. I stopped dreading bedtime. That's when I knew I had to share what I'd learned.

Beyond the Reviews

I live in Austin, Texas, with my incredibly patient husband Jake (who now jokes he's a "professional mattress mover"), our two kids—Emma (8) and Oliver (5)—and our rescue dog, Luna, who has strong opinions about every mattress we test.

I hold a degree in Consumer Sciences from UT Austin and spent 10 years in product research before diving into the world of sleep health. I'm also certified in ergonomic assessment, which helps me evaluate how mattresses support the body's natural alignment.

When I'm not testing mattresses or analyzing sleep data, you'll find me attempting to keep up with my kids at the park, practicing yoga (carefully, to protect my shoulders!), or reading sleep science journals with a cup of chamomile tea.

My Promise to You

Every review on this site is based on real testing—minimum 30 nights on each mattress. I use objective measurements, not just subjective feelings. I track pressure points, spine alignment, and pain levels. And most importantly, I only recommend mattresses that I would personally sleep on or recommend to my own family.

I don't accept free mattresses from companies (I buy them all myself or through secret shoppers). While I do use affiliate links to keep the site running, I've turned down lucrative partnerships with brands that didn't meet my standards. Your trust means more to me than any commission.

Let's Connect!

I know how frustrating it is to wake up in pain every morning. I've been there. And I genuinely want to help you find your solution.

If you have questions about side sleeping, specific pain issues, or need personalized advice, please reach out! I personally read and respond to every email (though it might take me a few days during busy testing periods).

Email me at: hello@sidesleeper.guide

The Mission Continues

Side sleepers have been ignored by the mattress industry for too long. We're told to "just sleep on our backs" (as if it's that easy!) or that our pain is inevitable. I'm here to prove that's not true.

Together, we're building a community of side sleepers who refuse to accept morning pain as normal. We share what works, what doesn't, and support each other in finding better sleep.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for trusting me with your sleep journey. And remember: you deserve to wake up feeling amazing, not achey.

Sweet dreams (on your side!),

Sarah Miller Founder, Side Sleeper Guide

P.S. - Yes, I really have 52 mattresses in storage. No, my husband has not forgiven me for turning our garage into a "mattress museum." But when readers email me saying they're finally pain-free? Totally worth it. 💙