Whatsapp (need help)

I have a galaxy S25+ and galaxy watch 9 for reference.

On whatsapp im trying to send voice messages off my watch, the audio is being recorder and is crystal clear my end but when I sent the message, the recipient recieves (if on mobile data) "couldnt download audio, try again. If the problem keeps happening, try connecting to wifi" (and if on wifi) "couldn't download audio. Try again. If the problem keeps happening, try turning off WiFi or vpn (no vpn on), or connecting to a different WiFi network" 

Has anyone else had this issue and know a way to fix it??? Ive tried clearing the cache on both devices, uninstalled the app and reinstalled it, im at my wits end and if I had hair, id be pulling it out right about not