Is there any way to leave a mac mini transferring files, archiving cd/dvd to xbmc when using different input on av reciever

Hi I have a Mac Mini (about a year old) conneced to an av receiver via hdmi. If I leave the Mac transferring files, archiving a cd to itunes or archiving a dvd to the nas for xbmc it basically stops what it is doing when I change inputs on the av reciever. What I would like to be able to do it set it off with a 'job' watch a program on an alternative input then re visit the mac once everything is done - or even leave it overnight.

does anyone have any suggestions?

thanks in advance