Are forms (ie. mailing lists and feedback forms) cgi? or ssi? what are they? how would i go about setting up my own mailing list.

Some can be cgi, yes. But not ssi. For feedback forms check: http://www.lissaexplains.com/html4.shtml#form .

The easiest way to set up a mailing list would be to simply find a free site that offers the service.
Mailing list thread:
http://www.lissaexplains.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=29488

thanks for the help. I already have a free mailing list. but it has their ad tags on it. i'd like to know how to do it myself.