Thank you for your reply, and for documenting what you've tried, so clearly.
Updating the the latest iOS was a great move. Sorry that hasn't helped either.
My only suggestion now is to check the problem-situation out with Apple Support.
Eg: There is a "Get Support" link to Apple at top right on this discussion page.
or use the Support link in the Voice Memos feedback web-form at the bottom of this reply.
or download and use the Apple Support app.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-support/id1130498044?l=en
or
Apple phone numbers around the world
Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support
__________________________________________________________
If you wish:
You may want to send feedback to the Voice Memos Team at Apple:
(They will likely not reply, yet if others are experiencing this issue too,
there may be changes made, in the next update.)
Feedback - Voice Memos - Apple
All the best :-)