How can I control my iPhone's bluetooth connections to exclude specific devices?

Is there a way to control what devices my iphone can connect to with Bluetooth? i.e. a way to have it connect only to my airpods, and exlude all other devices within range? Sort of like a more detailed Bluetooth controller, like an app I could install. I walk at my local mall for exercise. I have never had a significant problem until yesterday. My air pods kept disconnecting, about 20 times over an hour. Sometimes every 20-30 seconds several times. Looking at the listed Bluetooth devices in the bottom list (Other Devices) was 2 Samsung TVs and QCOM-BTD at one point. Another time looking was only QCOM-BTD. I'm thinking the mall installed a new Bluetooth system, or made a change in their current system. I tried clicking on the QCOM-BTD, thinking I could then select Ignore This Device, but nothing happened. Being a Sunday I didn't bother stopping by the Mall Office to complain. I didn't think to turn off my WiFi, will try this today. Last night I dug out my old ipod nano 6th generation (the little square one) and wired earbuds but the nano won't hold a charge. My iphone is a 13 with the latest updates and my air pods are pro 2. Thanks in advance.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]