Syncing 2nd gen iPod Touch in 11.2.2

Since Apple started separating podcasts by Apple ID, I have been getting an annoying popup about my podcasts being connected to the wrong account. The main problem with the Podcast Sync message is that my podcasts have never been connected to any Apple ID, and there is no way to download the 'Podcast' app if you don't have a 3rd gen iPod Touch or newer, so, how do I fix this issue? it pops up 3-5 times every time I want to sync my iPod with iTunes on my Mac, and its a nuisance! thanks!