Rode Mic is blocking camera on Android Zoom app

Hello,

So up to now I've been able to use a Rode Video Mic-Me USB-C external microphone on Zoom calls with no issues.  I log in via the Zoom App on a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (Android).  After a hiatus over the holidays, however, when I plug this mic before/during a Zoom meeting I get a pop-up stating the video cannot be turned on and that I should check if other apps are using the camera.  

The microphone works fine when recording video on the native camera app while not on a Zoom, so I know it's not Android OS or my phone causing the problem.  Also, I plugged in USB-C earbuds during a Zoom meeting with no issues, so I know its not just any USB device blocking the camera - only my Rode mic

Moreover, if I start my own Zoom meeting, the camera works (I can see myself) until someone else joins, whereupon the outgoing camera completely shuts off and I receive said error msg.  While I can see other parties, they can't see me. Since I'm unable to toggle the camera on via the icon, my only option is to unplug the Rode and use my phone's internal mic to continue the call with outbound video.

Any thoughts?  Thank you ..

VJ