The phrase "small pod" refers to a small group or gathering of people or things. It implies a close-knit community or a compact unit of individuals or objects. Full definition
Very nice looking plant when filled with small pods. (fataliiseeds.net)
We've replaced a lineal production process with a clustered one consisting of small pods of talent working collaboratively on projects, owning them, seeing them through, and advocating for them. (uxmag.com)
SOCIAL GROUPS Gray whales congregated in small pods of about 3 whales, but the pod may have as many as 16 members. (enchantedlearning.com)