In this Law and Justice episode, Jane Mulcahy speaks with Dr. Stephen Porges about the polyvagal theory, which is hugely influential among trauma practitioners with a specific focus on its relevance to the criminal justice system, including prisons. We discuss Dr. Porges’s concept of neuroception and what the autonomic nervous system needs to feel safe, as well as the gap between cultural, social and legal understandings of safety and risk. We also discuss the value and limits of the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) science and the importance of public education about polyvagal theory, trauma, ACEs and survival responses in order to foster greater self-compassion and social support for survivors.