My hybridizing "operation" is small-scale in the extreme. I have attempted four so far, meaning I had four seed pods. One aborted spontaneously; one is of questionable value because I unknowingly crossed a dip with a tet, one got eaten by a critter of some sort, leaving one in which I have some confidence. I will be trying others but I'm really concerned about the critter problem. I have never had that problem before, and I know we have more chip monks than ever before. So, fearing that I may lose any possible future seed pods, I want to protect them.

Do seed pods have to be exposed to the sun in order to grow? I bought some jewelry pouches thinking I can hang them over the pods upside down to keep the critters at bay that way. Question is, will that do more harm than good?

I don't think something like a jewelry bag is the way to go. Try some nylon mesh, maybe old panty hose or stocking material. Tulle material, I think is often recommended for situations like I think you are facing.
There is safety in numbers so maybe try and develop more pods, that is about all I can suggest. I had a lot of failed pods, but I am still collecting a lot also, so having a large number can help make up for the lost ones.

Thanks for the feedback, Larry.