Hi Jesse C.,
Important information regarding the set up and use of dication in macOS Ventura can be found in the article Dictate messages and documents on Mac. On that page is the following description of what should occur during the use of that feature:
"Dictate text
- In an app on your Mac, place the insertion point where you want the dictated text to appear.
- Press
if available in the row of function keys, use the dictation keyboard shortcut, or choose Edit > Start Dictation.
Note: Press and release to start Dictation; press and hold to activate Siri (Siri must be enabled).
3. When the feedback window shows a microphone icon with a fluctuating loudness indicator, or you hear the tone that signals your Mac is ready for dictation, dictate your text....
6. When you’re done, press the dictation keyboard shortcut, the Return key, or click Done in the feedback window."
You may also find helpful information via the Mac Accessibility Assistant as described in the video How to use the Mac Accessibility Assistance shortcut.
Regards.