The one step that you did miss was to delete or rename the "backup" folder inside of the same location as the .exe. That's actually the step that's been messing everyone up since I merged Ank's Bugfixes in this version. If the backup folder isn't renamed or deleted (I just called mine "backup of backup") Strive will override the files you just applied with the vanilla files from backup.
So to clarify, just one step between "overriding the files/hit the green checkmark or hook" and "apply the mod", which is delete or rename the backup folder.
And I'll hit enter more often. Lol. Thanks!