Another thing that will almost immediately get you over a fear of "said" is taking a journalism class. When writing for a newspaper/yearbook/magazine, you aren't allowed to use any word but "said," because any other word makes an inferrence as to the state of the interviewed person. Colorful synonyms for "said" just interject the journalist's opinion, which you are never allowed to do. "Said" is the only acceptable word in journalistic writing.

I've also found that half the time, I don't even pay attention to whatever colorful synonym for "said" the author has written. I glance at the name to make sure I know who's speaking, and then get on with the reading.